Skoltech researchers and the startup Rustor have secured patent number 2868315 for a precursor compound used in lithium-ion battery cathodes. The technology is designed for applications in portable electronics, electric vehicles, and drones.
Traditional manufacturing methods require high temperatures of 950–1000°C and produce alkaline waste. The new approach operates at neutral pH and lower temperatures, resulting in a cobalt(II) basic carbonate hydrate with a rhombic structure and particles under 100 nm.
The use of nanoscale particles shortens lithium-ion diffusion paths, allowing the final firing temperature to be reduced to 800–890°C. This process eliminates the generation of highly alkaline waste solutions and improves the tap density of the resulting powder.
The material demonstrates increased capacity, power, and cycle life under high charging voltages and discharge currents. These characteristics are particularly beneficial for drones that require high energy storage and rapid power delivery during maneuvers.
Rustor currently operates a pilot production facility to refine the process. The team is prepared to offer the technology as a complete package for industrial implementation.
