Nitrate additives for nonaqueous electrolyte rechargeable cells

摘要

A lithium ion electrochemical cell having high charge/discharge capacity, long cycle life and exhibiting a reduced first cycle irreversible capacity, is described. The stated benefits are realized by the addition of at least one nitrate additive to an electrolyte comprising an alkali metal salt dissolved in a solvent mixture that includes ethylene carbonate, dimethyl carbonate, ethylmethyl carbonate and diethyl carbonate. The preferred additive is an organic alkyl nitrate compound.