The objective of DREAM Batteries is to develop a functional rechargeable magnesium-ion batteries with good cyclability and better durability.Magnesium metal as an anode electrode for batteries is very attractive as it is the fifth most abundant material on earth (low cost), it can pack more energy per unit volume than lithium, and it is very safe during operation.
Nevertheless, due to the ability of magnesium to form an insulation layer when it comes to contact with oxygen and aqueous solvents, it is hard to recharge these batteries repeatedly using the current electrolyte systems. Also, to make magnesium-ion batteries commercially viable, it is necessary to make these batteries less heavy by developing advanced materials for cathode with high operating voltages.
In the parent project ADMIRE, we proposed to develop a new category of cathode materials that can facilitate insertion and extraction of magnesium at high potentials by developing novel amorphous vanadium oxides. Also, we also propose to develop new electrolyte systems based on ionic liquids which are compatible with the anode to have more charge/discharge cycles and cathode to accommodate high-performance cathodes with a wider voltage limit. This project will compliment the main project by introducing new anode materials from the French Institute as well as test our materials in their facilities.
Through DREAM Batteries we aim to have a strong research collaboration with ICBM beyond this funding period by launching new project through the H2020 framework. The outcome of this project would also lead to the development of research, personal and social skills of young researchers as well as business opportunities for relevant industries.