E-One Moli Energy Launches IMR26700 Li-Ion Cell
E-One Moli Energy Ltd. (Molicel, Vancouver, BC, Canada), a subsidiary of E-One Moli Energy Corp. (Taiwan), launched its IMR26700 high-power, lithium-ion (Li-Ion) cell for high-rate applications. The cells are the energy source for a complete line of 28 V Li-Ion cordless power tools by Milwaukee Electric Tool Corp. The IMR26700 comes one year after introduction of the 2.4 Ah ICR18650 cell, used in laptop computer applications.
Using lithium-manganese oxide (LiMN204) in the positive electrode of the new IMR26700 cell allows for a Li-ion cell with higher discharge rates. The IMR26700 cell can deliver currents in excess of 100 A. By eliminating cobalt from the IMR26700 cell, it is possible to produce a larger cell, while providing safety. Further developments of the IMR26700 cell will provide fast charge capability, allowing cells to be fully charged in as little as 15 minutes.
The IMR26700 will allow Molicel to enter new markets such as electric bicycles, power tools and potentially electric or hybrid-electric vehicles. Manganese-oxide Li-Ion batteries are more environmentally friendly than traditional battery systems. To support the launch of the new IMR26700, Molicel has implemented in a new high-speed production line capable of producing 1.5 million cells per month. Molicel began shipping the IMR26700 cells in 2004.
