Dry-processed composite cathode design with fast electron transfer network for high energy density lithium-ion...

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Green Chemistry

Background:

• Solvent-free binder fibrillation increases electrode density but limits electron conduction and homogeneity in thick electrodes.
• Poor electronic conductivity and mechanical properties hinder battery performance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To address limitations in thick electrodes for lithium-ion batteries.
• To design an improved conductive carbon-binder network for enhanced cathode performance.

Main Methods:

• Compared three conductive materials for cathode applications.
• Developed a "point-line" conductive network using polytetrafluoroethylene fiber, carbon nanotubes, and Super P via air milling.

Main Results:

• The optimized cathode exhibited enhanced electronic conductivity, low surface energy, and a unique nested structure.
• Achieved 91.4% capacity retention after 150 cycles at 1C and superior rate capabilities (158.6 mAhg⁻¹ at 1C, 142.2 mAhg⁻¹ at 2C).
• The embedded binder improved cathode protection and structural stability.

Conclusions:

• The "point-line" conductive network significantly enhances cathode performance and cycling stability.
• Combining material functions offers a valuable strategy for developing high energy density lithium-ion batteries.
• This method supports the development of greener and more efficient energy storage solutions.