Abstract: A compact, robust, multifunctional and highly manufacturable rechargeable cylindrical electrochemical cell is provided. In some embodiments, a cell can include a spirally wound assembly having an anode sheet and a cathode sheet separated by separator membranes, each sheet having a electroactive layer on a current collector. At least one of the current collectors can be in electrical communication with conducting tabs that extend from at least one of the anode sheet and the cathode sheet, the conducting tabs extends from an end face of the spirally wound assembly. The centers of the plurality of conducting tabs can be located within a 90 degree quadrant of an end face of the spirally wound assembly.

Abstract: Apparatus and method are described that are useful in preparing a tabbed electrode sheet for use in assembling an electrochemical storage device. To provide clean surfaces for attaching conductive tabs, portions of a coated electrode sheet are selectively removed by contacting the sheet with heat and solvent, and mechanically removing electrode material in solvent-exposed areas.

Abstract: Nanoscale ion storage materials are provided that exhibit unique properties measurably distinct from their larger scale counterparts. For example, the nanoscale materials can exhibit increased electronic conductivity, improved electromechanical stability, increased rate of intercalation, and/or an extended range of solid solution. Useful nanoscale materials include alkaline transition metal phosphates, such as LiMPO4, where M is one or more transition metals. The nanoscale ion storage materials are useful for producing devices such as high energy and high power storage batteries, battery-capacitor hybrid devices, and high rate electrochromic devices.

Abstract: A lithium-ion battery is provided that has a fast charge and discharge rate capability and low rate of capacity fade during high rate cycling. The battery can exhibit low impedance growth and other properties allowing for its use in hybrid electric vehicle applications and other applications where high power and long battery life are important features.

Abstract: Nanoscale ion storage materials are provided that exhibit unique properties measurably distinct from their larger scale counterparts. For example, the nanoscale materials can exhibit increased electronic conductivity, improved electromechanical stability, increased rate of intercalation, and/or an extended range of solid solution. Useful nanoscale materials include alkaline transition metal phosphates, such as LiMPO4, where M is one or more transition metals. The nanoscale ion storage materials are useful for producing devices such as high energy and high power storage batteries, battery-capacitor hybrid devices, and high rate electrochromic devices.

Abstract: The energy density of the entire cell may be improved while retaining high power density by use of an alkali metal transition metal polyanion compound as the cathode and a thin film metal or metalloid anode. The thin film anode may be initially unalloyed or partially unalloyed. During use, the thin film anode may be only partially unalloyed relative to the theoretical maximum. The high volumetric capacity of the metal anode makes it possible to use a dense or porous thin film anode in conjunction with a relatively thin particle-based cathode to thereby improve the energy density of the cell.

Abstract: A high capacity, high charge rate lithium secondary cell includes a high capacity lithium-containing positive electrode in electronic contact with a positive electrode current collector, said current collector in electrical connection with an external circuit, a high capacity negative electrode in electronic contact with a negative electrode current collector, said current collector in electrical connection with an external circuit, a separator positioned between and in ionic contact with the cathode and the anode, and an electrolyte in ionic contact with the positive and negative electrodes, wherein the total area specific impedance for the cell and the relative area specific impedances for the positive and negative electrodes are such that, during charging at greater than or equal to 4C, the negative electrode potential is above the potential of metallic lithium.

Abstract: A high capacity, high charge rate lithium secondary cell includes a high capacity lithium-containing positive electrode in electronic contact with a positive electrode current collector, said current collector in electrical connection with an external circuit, a high capacity negative electrode in electronic contact with a negative electrode current collector, said current collector in electrical connection with an external circuit, a separator positioned between and in ionic contact with the cathode and the anode, and an electrolyte in ionic contact with the positive and negative electrodes, wherein the total area specific impedance for the cell and the relative area specific impedances for the positive and negative electrodes are such that, during charging at greater than or equal to 4C, the negative electrode potential is above the potential of metallic lithium.

Abstract: Compositions and methods are provided for coating electroactive particles. Coating materials include a conductive component and a low refractive index component. Coatings are provided in which the conductive and low refractive index components are linked and/or do not form phases having lengthscales greater than about 0.25 ?m. Coatings are provided in which the components are contained in sequential layers.

Abstract: The invention provides bipolar articles (e.g., batteries and capacitors) with new architectures and methods of making and using the same. Articles are provided with interpenetrating anode and cathode structures that allow for improved power density, and arbitrary form factors that allow for formation in substantially any desired shape. The articles are useful for embedding or integral formation in various electronic devices to provide more efficient use of space in the devices. The articles optionally include self-organizing bipolar structures.