Basic elements for energy storage and conversion -- Lithium batteries -- Principle of intercalation -- Reliability of the rigid-band model in lithium intercalation compounds -- Cathode materials with 2-dimensional structure -- Cathode materials with monoatomic ions in a 3-D framework -- PO4-based compounds as cathode materials -- Fluoro-polyanionic compounds -- Disordered compounds -- Negative electrodes for Li-ion batteries -- Electrolytes for lithium batteries -- Nanotechnology -- Electrochemical measurements in solids -- Safety aspects of Li-ion batteries -- Technology of the Li-ion batteries.

The book focuses on the solid-state physics, chemistry and electrochemistry that are needed to grasp the technology of and research on high-power Lithium batteries. After an exposition of fundamentals of lithium batteries, it includes experimental techniques used to characterize electrode materials, and a comprehensive analysis of the structural, physical, and chemical properties necessary to insure quality control in production. The different properties specific to each component of the batteries are discussed in order to offer manufacturers the capability to choose which kind of battery should be used: which compromise between power and energy density and which compromise between energy and safety should be made, and for which cycling life. Although attention is primarily on electrode materials since they are paramount in terms of battery performance and cost, different electrolytes are also reviewed in the context of safety concerns and in relation to the solid-electrolyte interface. Separators are also reviewed in light of safety issues. The book is intended not only for scientists and graduate students working on batteries but also for engineers and technologists who want to acquire a sound grounding in the fundamentals of battery science arising from the interaction of electrochemistry, solid state materials science, surfaces and interfaces.