Performance of Superconductive Oxides as Cathodes for Lithium Rechargeable Batteries

The superconducting oxides, yttrium barium copper oxide A and neodymium copper oxide B were fabricated into cathodes for lithium nonaqueous batteries. The cathode limited cells had electrolytes of 1M LiClO4 or LiAsF6 in propylene carbonate or 2-methyl-tetrahydrofuran and were hermetically sealed in stainless steel case-positive cans. The initial open circuit potentials were in the range of 3.0-3.5 volts for all cell types. The potentials of both type A and B cells with oxides prepared in an atmosphere of O2 were about 200mV greater than those for cathodes that have been prepared in an N2 atmosphere. Cycle and capacity test results are presented. Keywords Li battery, Insertion cathode, Yttrium barium copper oxides, Non-aqueous cell.