Analysis of Graphite Materials for Fast-Charging Capabilities in Lithium-Ion Batteries

Abstract

The application of lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles calls for decreased cost, increased energy density, increased power density, as well as low-temperature and fast-charging capability. In regard to fast charging, it is generally understood that it is the kinetic overpotential at the graphite anode that limits the cycling rate in modern commercial battery formulations. In this work, we study the fast-charging capabilities of a series of graphite samples from commercial suppliers, as part of a materials validation effort at Argonne National Laboratory. We combine materials characterization data from the raw samples with electrochemical characterization of graphite laminate electrodes in full-cell configuration to explore the causes of differences in rate performance and its impact on cycle life.