Electrode manufacturing for lithium-ion batteries—Analysis of current and next generation processing. (October 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hawley, W. Blake; Li, Jianlin
• Is Part Of: Journal of energy storage. Volume 25(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-10
• Subjects: Slurry -- Electrode processing -- Electrode drying -- Electrode architecture -- Roll-to-roll manufacturing; Energy storage -- Periodicals; Energy storage -- Research -- Periodicals; 621.3126
• DOI: 10.1016/j.est.2019.100862
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2352-152X

Abstract

Highlights: Slurry viscosity must be viewed in the context of shear rate and temperature. Slurry rheology alone cannot predict electrochemical performance. Optimal coating drying rate is sensitive to the underlying drying mechanisms. Next generation electrode manufacturing needs to minimize or eliminate solvent. Tailored electrode architectures will unlock the lithium-ion battery's potential. Abstract: As modern energy storage needs become more demanding, the manufacturing of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) represents a sizable area of growth of the technology. Specifically, wet processing of electrodes has matured such that it is a commonly employed industrial technique. Despite its widespread acceptance, wet processing of electrodes faces a number of problems, including expensive and dangerous solvent recovery, cut-off waste, coating inconsistencies, and microstructural defects due to the solvent drying process. This review considers each of these issues and discusses which electrode slurry properties should be considered when optimizing wet slurry fabrication. Simultaneously, methods to replace traditional wet processing of electrodes are being extensively researched. Some of these novel electrode manufacturing techniques prioritize solvent minimization, while others emphasize boosting energy and power density by thickening the electrode and, subsequently, creating an organized pore structure to permit faster ion diffusion. This review contemplates the advantages and disadvantages of each of these approaches and provides a comprehensive outlook on the future of electrode manufacturing.