Multi-level energy analysis of emerging technologies: a case study in new materials for lithium ion batteries
Journal article, 2011

A range of new nanomaterials to replace the active materials in lithium ion batteries are currently being studied and employed in an attempt to overcome various performance limitations of previous technologies. Nanomaterial production and manufacturing techniques appear to fit into a general trend towards more energy intensive production methods for high-tech goods. This does not necessarily imply an increase in lifecycle energy use; artefacts that consume or transform energy during use could possibly regain this increased initial input via increased efficiency in use. In particular, this paper highlights that larger gains could be possible if the artefact in question allows a given service to be provided via an alternative and more efficient system entirely. The lifecycle energy efficiencies of lithium ion batteries constructed from several new advanced materials are analysed with several different system boundaries. Although nanomaterials require more energy input to produce, the implications of nanomaterials for energy flows in the use phase (i.e. driving), and higher levels such as the architecture of future transport fuel production systems are much larger in magnitude than the initial lifecycle inputs for producing the materials in question.

Transport

Technology assessment

performance

photovoltaic systems

life-cycle assessment

electrochemical properties

LCA

Nano

aging mechanisms

Battery

chemistry

electric vehicles

lini0.8co0.2o2

cathode materials

iron phosphate

Energy

Lithium

Author

Duncan Kushnir

Chalmers, Energy and Environment, Environmental Systems Analysis

Björn Sandén

Chalmers, Energy and Environment, Environmental Systems Analysis

Journal of Cleaner Production

0959-6526 (ISSN)

Vol. 19 13 1405-1416

Driving Forces

Sustainable development

Areas of Advance

Nanoscience and Nanotechnology

Transport

Energy

Subject Categories

Other Environmental Engineering

DOI

10.1016/j.jclepro.2011.05.006

More information

Created

10/7/2017