Influence of Polymeric Binders on Robust Performance of Lithium-Ion Electrodes

Abstract

Lithium-ion batteries have become ubiquitous in a variety of energy storage applications ranging from grid storage to consumer electronics to electric vehicles. However, their continued usage in a vastly dynamic world predicates on their ability to be not only safe, sustainable, and reliable, but also contain high capacity under a variety of fast charge/discharge conditions. Multiple studies have shown that increased performance at fast charge/discharge rates can be achieved through systematic manipulation of key interfaces at various nano-, micro- and mesoscales of the electrode. Through careful tuning of the processing and chemical modification of polymeric binders, capping agents, and conductive additives, rational design of battery electrodes with specific performance characteristics can be achieved. Careful manipulation of interfacial chemistries can help push the boundaries of electrochemical performance in a wide variety of cell components. This presentation will focus on the chemical manipulation of polymers within a composite electrode to gain fundamental insights needed for the realization of next-generation battery systems.