Abstract: Sulfur-based electrodes, and associated systems and methods for their fabrication, are generally described. Certain embodiments relate to sulfur-based electrodes with smooth external surfaces. According to some embodiments, relatively large forces can be applied to compositions from which the sulfur-based electrodes are made during the fabrication process. In some such embodiments, the compositions can maintain relatively high porosities, even after the relatively large forces have been applied to them. Methods in which liquids are employed during the electrode fabrication process are also described.

Abstract: Electrode structures and methods for making the same are generally described. In certain embodiments, the electrode structures can include a plurality of particles, wherein the particles comprise indentations relative to their convex hulls. As the particles are moved proximate to or in contact with one another, the indentations of the particles can define pores between the particles. In addition, when particles comprising indentations relative to their convex hulls are moved relative to each other, the presence of the indentations can ensure that complete contact does not result between the particles (i.e., that there remains some space between the particles) and that void volume is maintained within the bulk of the assembly. Accordingly, electrodes comprising particles with indentations relative to their convex hulls can be configured to withstand the application of a force to the electrode while substantially maintaining electrode void volume (and, therefore, performance).

Abstract: Composite structures including an ion-conducting material and a polymeric material (e.g., a separator) to protect electrodes are generally described. The ion-conducting material may be in the form of a layer that is bonded to a polymeric separator. The ion-conducting material may comprise a lithium oxysulfide having a lithium-ion conductivity of at least at least 10?6 S/cm.

Abstract: The use of ion-conducting materials to protect electrodes is generally described. The ion-conducting material may be in the form of a layer that is adjacent to a polymeric layer, such as a porous separator, to form a composite. At least a portion of the pores of the polymer layer may be filled or unfilled with the ion-conducting material. In some embodiments, the ion-conducting layer is sufficiently bonded to the polymer layer to prevent delamination of the layers during cycling of an electrochemical cell.

Abstract: A hermetic sample holder for use in performing microanalysis of a sample under a controlled atmosphere environment. The sample holder comprises a sample holder body with a sample cavity to receive the sample and a cover movably mounted to the holder body between an open position to allow access to the cavity and a closed position to seal the cavity. The cover is secured in and released from the closed position at least in part by a pressure differential between the cavity and the ambient atmosphere. The cover may be biased toward the open position. The cover may be pivotally mounted about an axis that is perpendicular to a sealing surface of the cover and/or movable in a direction along the pivot axis. A valve may be provided to allow direct evacuation of the cavity to create a pressure differential. An adjustable clamp may be located in the cavity to secure the sample.

Abstract: The present invention relates to porous structures for energy storage devices. In some embodiments, the porous structure can comprise sulfur and be used in electrochemical cells. Such materials may be useful, for example, in forming one or more electrodes in an electrochemical cell. For example, the systems and methods described herein may comprise the use of an electrode comprising a conductive porous support structure and a plurality of particles comprising sulfur (e.g., as an active species) substantially contained within the pores of the support structure. The inventors have unexpectedly discovered that, in some embodiments, the sizes of the pores within the porous support structure and/or the sizes of the particles within the pores can be tailored such that the contact between the electrolyte and the sulfur is enhanced, while the electrical conductivity and structural integrity of the electrode are maintained at sufficiently high levels to allow for effective operation of the cell.

Abstract: A hermetic sample holder for use in performing microanalysis of a sample under a controlled atmosphere environment. The sample holder comprises a sample holder body with a sample cavity to receive the sample and a cover movably mounted to the holder body between an open position to allow access to the cavity and a closed position to seal the cavity. The cover is secured in and released from the closed position at least in part by a pressure differential between the cavity and the ambient atmosphere. The cover may be biased toward the open position. The cover may be pivotally mounted about an axis that is perpendicular to a sealing surface of the cover and/or movable in a direction along the pivot axis. A valve may be provided to allow direct evacuation of the cavity to create a pressure differential. An adjustable clamp may be located in the cavity to secure the sample.

Abstract: Systems and methods for accurately determining the state of charge and the relative age of lithium sulfur batteries are provided. The cell resistance and taper input charge of a particular type of lithium sulfur battery are respectively measured to determine the state of charge and age of the battery.