Abstract: Provided are methods of producing a negative electrode including comminuting Li-Group IVA alloy particles in a solvent to a desired particle size distribution range, exposing surfaces of the Li-Group IVA alloy particles to a monomer or polymer surface modifier present during the comminution process, the surface modifier forming a continuous coating on an exposed surface of the Li-Group IVA alloy particles, removing the solvent, and adding the surface-modified Li-Group IVA alloy particles to a negative electrode material by a coating process.

Abstract: Provided are methods of producing a negative electrode including comminuting Li-Group IVA alloy particles in a solvent to a desired particle size distribution range, exposing surfaces of the Li-Group IVA alloy particles to a monomer or polymer surface modifier present during the comminution process, the surface modifier forming a continuous coating on an exposed surface of the Li-Group IVA alloy particles, removing the solvent, and adding the surface-modified Li-Group IVA alloy particles to a negative electrode material by a coating process.

Abstract: The present invention provides micron or submicron particles (NPs) that are comprised of a variety of materials, including Group IVA elements such as silicon (Si) that are known to have a high electrochemical capacity in Li-ion secondary batteries. The micron or sub-micron particles of the invention are provided with a surface layer, or surface modification, that imparts additional functionality to the particle. Surface modification prevents the formation of a dielectric oxide layer on the primary Group IV A particles, allowing elements of the surface modifier to covalently bond directly to the Group IV A elements, accommodates volumetric expansion to help mitigate ingress of electrolyte solvents from penetrating the surface modifier, mitigates disruption of SEI layers formed during electrochemical cycling and provides favorable surface properties to allow the formation of strong bonding to binders and other materials in the electrode composite.

Abstract: Disclosed herein are electrolyte formulations containing methoxybenzene (also known as anisole or phenoxymethane) for use in lithium-air semi-fuel cells. Lithium-air semi-fuel cells contain a metallic lithium anode and an air (oxygen) fuel cell type porous carbon cathode. The reaction product in the cathode is lithium oxide (Li2O) and/or lithium peroxide (Li2O2). This reaction product is sparingly soluble in common lithium-air cell solvents, and therefore the cathode pores become blocked over time, leading to cell end-of-life. Methoxybenzene is an organic solvent that demonstrates an increased solubility of Li2O, which minimizes the clogging of the cathode. Lithium-air semi-fuel cells with electrolytes containing methoxybenzene demonstrate higher discharge capacities per the same weight, than the cells having electrolytes without methoxybenzene. Higher energy density semi-fuel cells are thus achieved.

Abstract: Advanced lithium-air semi-fuel cell with non-aqueous electrolyte solution is provided, having higher energy density over the prior art cells, due to its protective, oxygen selective, permeable membrane of PTFE coated fiberglass cloth, placed over the cathode outer surface. Said membrane is flexible and protects the cell from moisture and evaporation of said electrolyte, which substantially minimizes parasitic losses of lithium and increases the cell efficiency and safety. The membrane may also have a layer of air-permeable adhesive added, facing said cathode.