TO ADVANCED BATTERIES FOR EMERGING APPLICATIONS

The types and number of applications requiring improved or advanced rechargeable batteries are constantly expanding. The new and evolving applications include electric and electric hybrid vehicles, electric utility energy storage, portable electronics, and storage of electric energy produced by renewable energy resources such as solar or wind generators. In addition, the performance, life and cost requirements for the batteries used in both new and existing applications are becoming increasingly more rigorous. Commercially available batteries may not able to meet these performance requirements. Thus, a need exists for both conventional battery technology with improved performance and advanced battery technologies with characteristics such as high energy and power densities, long life, low cost, little or no maintenance, and a high degree of safety.