abstract |
Provided are primary electrochemical cells having a stable operating voltage of 0.3 V to 2.0 V that include a Li anode coupled to a cathode that is formed of one or more Group 4A, 3A, or 5A elements provided alone or as an alloy with a second, third or other Group 4A, 3A, or 5A element or one or more transition metals. The cells further include a non-aqueous electrolyte optionally with low volatility such as having a vapor pressure of 5 mm Hg or lower at STP, and optionally a lithium-ion conductive and electrically insulating separator inserted between the anode and the cathode. The cells provide stable operating voltage that in some aspects can serve to power ultra-low power devices for 10 or more years without the need for expensive or inefficient circuitry to alter the cell voltage. |