Novel lithium/polymer rechargeable battery system

The PolyPlus battery is a thin-film, all-solid-state system in which a lithium foil negative electrode is separated from the positive electrode by a polymer membrane. It provides superior power and capacity per unit weight and volume and long shelf life without deterioration or loss of charge. Since the PolyPlus technology is based on thin polymeric films, low cost roll-to-roll manufacturing processes, similar to those in the plastics film and laminating industry, can be used. This allows a strong economic advantage versus conventional liquid electrolyte technologies. Moreover, the solid-state PolyPlus system eliminates leaks, gas venting, or other hazards inherent in liquid electrolyte systems. The PolyPlus Li/polymer battery can deliver high specific energy (200 Wh/kg) and high rate discharge (500 W/kg). The performance, along with the low toxicity and low cost of materials used in the PolyPlus solid-state cell makes it exceptionally attractive as vehicle batteries. >