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Updated: May 21, 2026
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Non-aqueous Electrode Processing and Construction of Lithium-ion Coin Cells
Published on: February 1, 2016
Lignin-Functionalized Supramolecular Binder Enables Aggressive Cathode Chemistries in Advanced Li-Ion Batteries
Zhuzuan Chen1, Guangzhao Zhang1, Chaoyang Wang1
1School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Research Institute of Materials Science, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, China.
Journal of the American Chemical Society
|May 20, 2026
Summary
A novel lignin-functionalized polymonofluoroacrylic acid (PFA) binder stabilizes high-voltage battery cathodes by preventing parasitic reactions. This approach enhances battery longevity and energy density, offering a cost-effective alternative to electrolyte engineering.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Polymer Chemistry
Background:
- High-energy-density batteries require advanced cathode materials, but their high voltage and capacity lead to irreversible reactions.
- Parasitic reactions between electrolytes and cathodes cause material degradation and reduce battery lifespan.
- Current strategies often focus on electrolyte engineering, overlooking other crucial components like binders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel polymeric binder for stabilizing aggressive high-voltage cathode chemistries.
- To investigate the efficacy of lignin-functionalized polymonofluoroacrylic acid (PFA) in mitigating parasitic reactions.
- To enhance the reversibility and cycle life of advanced battery systems.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis of lignin-functionalized polymonofluoroacrylic acid (PFA) binder.
- Incorporation of the PFA binder into cathode composites (NCM811, LCO, LNMO).
- Electrochemical testing of lithium-ion and lithium-metal battery cells with the PFA binder.
Main Results:
- The PFA binder effectively stabilized various high-voltage cathode materials, including NCM811, LCO, and LNMO.
- PFA formed a LiF-rich interphase, insulating against parasitic electrolyte reactions and improving structural integrity.
- Lignin ensured binder dispersion and provided radical-scavenging capabilities, further enhancing stability.
- Demonstrated superior cycling performance in Li||NCM811 and graphite||NCM811 pouch cells at high voltages.
Conclusions:
- Lignin-functionalized PFA binder offers a versatile and economical solution for stabilizing advanced battery cathodes.
- This binder design mitigates parasitic reactions, enhances interfacial stability, and improves overall battery performance.
- The study presents a novel molecular design strategy for advanced binders to boost battery energy density and longevity.
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