You can freely build on Early Lithium-Ion Battery Design Using Chalcogenides

What this patent covers

This patent details a rechargeable battery system. It specifies an anode made from reactive metals like lithium, and a cathode made from a layered material called a chalcogenide, specifically titanium disulfide (TiS2) in one preferred embodiment. The key is that the titanium disulfide has a structure that allows ions (like lithium ions) from the anode to easily insert themselves into the chalcogenide's layers, and then be released back to the anode during charging. An electrolyte, which doesn't react with either electrode, facilitates this ion movement. Claim 10 provides a concrete example: lithium anode, titanium disulfide cathode, and a lithium perchlorate electrolyte in a mix of tetrahydrofuran and dimethoxyethane.

What is now free to use

All 0 claims of US 4009052 are in the public domain. Specifically:

The 0 dependent claims add narrowing limitations and are also free.

What is NOT covered

Patent expiry frees this specific invention. Separately-patented improvements made after expiry may still be protected.

• Batteries using anodes made of metals not listed in Group Ia, Ib, IIa, IIb, IIIa, or IVa.

• Batteries using cathode materials other than layered chalcogenides of the formula MZx (where M is Ti, Zr, Hf, Nb, Ta, V and Z is S, Se, Te, with x between 1.8-2.05) or alloys thereof.

• Batteries where the electrolyte chemically reacts with either the anode or the cathode.

• Batteries that do not allow for the intercalation of anode ions into the cathode structure.

• Batteries using solid-state electrolytes if the electrolyte is not specifically claimed as solid in claims 22 or 24.

Who is building on this today

M. Stanley Whittingham's pioneering work laid the groundwork for virtually all modern lithium-ion battery development. Companies like Tesla, LG Energy Solution, Samsung SDI, and countless others build upon the fundamental principles of intercalation chemistry first demonstrated in patents like this one, though they use different cathode materials for improved safety and performance.

Products built on expired version of this technology

How to cite this patent in your documentation

Exxon Research and Engineering Co. US Patent 4009052. Chalcogenide battery. Granted 1977, expired 1996. Now in the public domain.

Note: This is a convenience citation. Consult a patent attorney for formal freedom-to-operate analysis.

PatentBrief is an educational resource and does not provide legal advice. Patent expiration information is derived from USPTO records and may not reflect continuation patents, divisional filings, or separately-patented improvements. For commercial use or production decisions, obtain a formal freedom-to-operate (FTO) opinion from a registered patent attorney.