Washington University in St. Louis

Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) is developing a lithium-air (Li-Air) battery with ionic liquids to deliver efficient, reliable, and durable performance for high-energy and high-power applications. The proposed Li-Air flow battery would feature circulating ionic liquid saturated with oxygen to overcome critical challenges to Li-Air battery development, including achieving power rate capability and specific energy targets. The team will synthesize ionic liquids with high oxygen solubility, low viscosity, ultra-low volatility, and high ionic conductivity. Preliminary experimental results have demonstrated a tenfold increase in capacity using a circulating electrolyte.

WashU is enabling the electrification of railroad and ships through the development of transformational energy storage techniques. The proposed technology would provide a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative to traditional propulsion systems by achieving a levelized cost of energy below 20 cents per kilowatt-hour.