Application In Lithium-ion Batteries Research Articles

Creating value added nano silicon anodes from end-of-life photovoltaic modules: recovery, nano structuring, and the impact of ball milling and binder on its electrochemical performance

Recovery of silicon from end-of-life photovoltaic (PV) modules, purification, conversion to nano silicon (nano-Si), and subsequent application as an anode in lithium-ion batteries is challenging but can significantly influence the circular economy. Currently, a complete technology consisting of cross-contamination-free recovery of silicon wafers from end-of-life PV modules, a low-cost environmentally friendly purification process of the recovered PV silicon, a high yield conversion process of the recovered PV silicon into nano-Si, and its subsequent application in lithium-ion batteries is unavailable. This study provides a complete package including cross-contamination-free recovery, economical purification, reliable conversion to nano-Si, and efficient application of the end-of-life PV nano-Si in lithium-ion batteries. Hydrofluoric acid-free recovery and purification processes are demonstrated which can deliver large quantities of high-purity (≥ 99) silicon. In addition, the subsequent ball milling process produces very distinct nano-Si with different shapes and sizes. This study also creates a very effective nano-Si anode through in-situ crosslinking of water-soluble carboxymethyl cellulose and poly (acrylic acid) precursors. The integration of distinct PV nano-Si and water-soluble carboxymethyl cellulose-poly (acrylic acid) crosslink binder opens distinct possibilities to develop silicon-based practical anode for next generation low-cost lithium-ion batteries to power cell phones to electric vehicles.

Design Principle and Development Trends of Silicon-Based Anode Binders for Lithium-ion Batteries: A Mini Review

Abstract: Silicon (Si), recognized as a promising alternative material for the anodes of lithium-ion batteries, boasts a high theoretical specific capacity and abundant natural availability. During the preparation of silicon-based anodes, binders play a pivotal role in ensuring the cohesion of silicon particles, conductive agents, and current collectors. The structure and performance of these binders are critical for the mechanical stability, electrical conductivity, and stress dissipation capacity of the anodes. This review initially outlines the structural characteristics of various binders, including linear, branched, and three-dimensional cross-linked types. It then delves into the relationship between the structure and properties of these binders in the context of their application in high-performance lithium-ion batteries, focusing on their mechanical properties, electrical conductivity, and self-healing capabilities. Particular attention is given to the design strategies for binders that facilitate stress dissipation, with an emphasis on integrating multifunctional polymer binders renowned for their superior conductive and self-healing features. Such binders contribute to the formation of a robust three-dimensional network structure via multiple bonding mechanisms, including chemical, non-covalent, and coordination interactions. This configuration significantly enhances the adhesion between silicon particles, thereby facilitating the efficient dissipation of stress, which is a key aspect for ensuring the long-term cycling stability of lithium-ion batteries. Lastly, the paper explores future development directions for silicon anode binders, advocating for a thorough investigation into the synergy of diverse structural and functional combinations, with the aim of advancing the performance and practical application of silicon-based lithium-ion batteries.

Influence of phosphorus molar ratio on the fabrication and electrochemical properties of nanorod-shaped LiFePO4 synthesized via iron powder reduction for lithium-ion battery applications

Influence of phosphorus molar ratio on the fabrication and electrochemical properties of nanorod-shaped LiFePO₄ synthesized via iron powder reduction for lithium-ion battery applications

Nanotechnology applications in conventional lithium-ion batteries

Since the successful development of the first battery, it has prompted the development of the electronics industry. From only able to power small electronics, to powering fully electrical vehicles, battery technologies have developed to a promising extent, and has become ever more integral across many fields. However, conventional methods currently face challenges in improving battery performance to meet higher demands. The urgency of the issue calls for researcher to create innovate, new approaches to tackle the problem. The recent rise in nanotechnology research has prompted unique and practical solutions to some of battery technologys most major problems: low power and energy density. This article offers a comprehensive compilation and overview of recent advancements in nanotechnology applied to lithium-ion batteries and how these breakthroughs have effectively addressed critical challenges in enhancing battery performance. Emphasises in areas of nanotech research covered in this article includes silicon nanotechnology, carbon nanotechnology, and other innovative approaches to battery development.

Multifunctional activated carbon derived from novel biomass for high-performance energy storage applications: A sustainable alternative to fossil-fuel-derived carbon

Biomass-derived activated carbon materials have been attracted as low-cost and sustainable electrode materials for energy storage applications. In this work, we synthesised activated carbon from black gram whole skin for the first time, and the used source is a cost-effective carbon precursor. Nitrogen and phosphorous doping in activated carbon improved electronic conductivity, surface area and porosity. In supercapacitor application, the nitrogen and phosphorous doped activated carbon sample showed a high specific capacitance of 425 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 and cycling stability of about 92.5 % capacitance retention even after 5000 cycles in a three-electrode system. The observed stable specific capacitance in a three-electrode system encouraged us to make a two-electrode symmetric device, showing a specific capacitance of 100 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 with a higher energy density of 20 Wh kg−1. In addition, the lithium storage capability of doped carbon showed good capacity of 750 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 with a reversible capacity of 687 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles. The hetero-atom doped activated carbon derived from black gram skin showed outstanding electrochemical performance towards supercapacitor and lithium battery application, indicating a potential alternative to fossil fuel-derived carbon.

BC cone-shaped anodes for lithium-ion batteries

The efficiency of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) depends upon anode materials possessing high capacity. In present study, we investigate boron carbide cone anode (BCC) for LIBs. The first-principles density functional theory (DFT) method is used to design anode materials based on BCC for application in LIBs. We found that the BCC shows negative Li adsorption energies. Our results also revealed the fast diffusions of Li ion on the BCC with the small energy barrier of 0.34 eV. The storage capacity of BCC system rank among the highest capacity of anodes for LIBs, with value of 785 mAh/g. The low average open-circuit voltage (OCV) value of BCC system indicates that this anode can handle a large operating voltage in LIBs.

Early warning for thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries during various charging rates: Insights from expansion force analysis

Thermal runaway introduces a significant challenge in the widespread application of lithium-ion batteries, necessitating advanced early-warning technologies to ensure safety, particularly during charging. Only monitoring the temperature and voltage limit the performance of diagnostic algorithms. The expansion behavior of batteries, which is linked to their operating status, offers a vital indicator of safety. In this study, the evolution of multidimensional signals during overcharging experiments at different current rates is comprehensively investigated. The result shows that the abnormal expansion force can be detected at temperatures as low as 35.4 °C, which achieves an early warning signal 11 min earlier than the onset of battery thermal runaway. The effect of charging rate on battery safety is comprehensively analyzed, showing that the time interval between the warning signal of the expansion force and temperature increases steadily from 151 s to 682 s as the charging rate decreases. However, the charging rate hardly affects the stage of charge boundary of venting, which is around ±118 %. These insights are crucial for understanding early warning mechanisms in overcharged batteries, offering valuable guidance for enhancing the safety of electric vehicles and energy storage systems.

Single-Particle Elemental Analysis of μm-Sized Battery Materials by Laser Ablation Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry

Lithium-nickel-manganese-cobalt-oxides (NCMs) represent a preeminent class of cathode active materials for employment in commercially available lithium-ion battery applications. To realize large-scale production of the respective NCM precursors, coprecipitation is often conducted in continuous stirred-tank reactors (CSTR). However, precursors coming from CSTR processes show broad particle size distributions and undesired compositional differences within and between particles. To quantify this phenomenon, it is necessary to develop analytical tools to access quantitative data on particle composition depending on their size. Here, we demonstrate a novel application of single particle laser ablation-inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry to determine particle size-dependent elemental compositions by exemplary investigation of CSTR-based NCM precursors. An enrichment of Ni in larger particles with a concomitant enrichment of Co and Mn in smaller particles was identified. This compositional differences between particles persisted after calcination of the precursors with lithium hydroxide. The observed particle size-dependent concentration differences by spLA-ICP-MS were validated by scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive X-ray analysis.

A hierarchical porous structure and nitrogen-doping jointly enhance the lithium-ion storage capacity of biomass-derived carbon materials

Biomass-derived carbon materials are considered potential lithium-ion anode materials because they are sustainable, renewable, economical, and environmentally friendly and have tunable microstructures. However, biomass-derived carbon materials have low specific capacity and show capacity degradation during long-term electrochemical cycling, which prevents their application in high-performance lithium-ion batteries. Hence, in this paper, nitrogen-doped hierarchical porous carbon (NHPC) is synthesized from a biomass waste material, corncob, through one-step activation and carbonization procedures. N-doping in the NHPC modifies the electron distribution on the surface of carbon, resulting in the generation of additional lithium-ion storage sites and enhancing electrode wettability to increase the conductivity. Additionally, the doping procedure results in a hierarchical porous structure with an increased specific surface area and pore volume, which facilitates ion transport and provides remarkable cycling stability. The electrochemical performance of NHPC is improved by the jointly beneficial combination of N-doping and the hierarchical porous structure. The optimized NHPC electrode provides a reversible specific capacity of 700 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles at 100 mA g−1. This study provides a simple and efficient method for improving the electrochemical properties of biomass-derived carbon materials through elemental doping and modulation of microscopic morphology and structure.

Thermochemically driven crystal phase transfer via mechanical activation-assisted chlorination roasting toward the selective extraction of lithium from spodumene

With the rapid advancement and widespread application of lithium-ion batteries, the demand for lithium experiencing a precipitous surge. Hence, there is an increased emphasis on lithium extraction from spodumene deposits. However, the sustainable expansion of the lithium industry encounters challenges. Conventional processes suffer from drawbacks such as elevated transformation temperatures, high acid consumption, and challenges in leachate purification. In response to these challenges, this work proposes a selective and efficient lithium extraction process from α-spodumene through the combined approach of mechanical activation-assisted chlorination roasting and water leaching. Utilizing density functional theory (DFT) calculations to tailor chloride salts for the thermal treatment of spodumene, the combination of thermal behavior characterization and thermochemical calculations indicates the favorable propensity of CaCl2 and its hydrates for preferential reactions. Through the amalgamation of mechanical activation and chlorination roasting, the outcomes reveal that mechanical activation could reduce the phase transition temperature. Following a 3-hour activation period, a complete chlorination reaction is achievable at 900℃, yielding a lithium extraction efficiency of 91.34%. This endeavor holds the potential to furnish novel insights into the mechanism of selectively extracting chlorination roasting, thereby offering promising avenues for developing environmentally sound and selectively efficient technologies for lithium extraction from spodumene.

Applying different methods to improve the performance of lithium-ion batteries

Currently, the demand for energy is increasing, but people are beginning to realize that the impact of fossil fuels on the environment is very negative. As a more environmentally friendly energy source, electricity has been favored by everyone, and lithium batteries are a good choice. However, there are still some problems with lithium batteries at present. For this reason, a diverse of different methods have been developed and used to solve the problems encountered in the application of lithium-ion batteries. This research will summarize the problems pointed out in the previous literature. There will be different analysis methods for different problems in lithium batteries. The life cycle assessment (LCA) is mentioned in many documents, which can analyze whether electric vehicles are environmentally friendly and how to make them more environmentally friendly. Of course, this research also proposes the use of food waste to refine hard carbon, so that the cost of developing lithium batteries can be reduced.

Application of nanomaterials in Li-ion batteries

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have become an important energy storage solution in mobile devices, electric vehicles, and renewable energy storage. This research focuses on the key applications of nanomaterials in LIBs, which are attracting attention due to their unique electrochemical properties. This research first introduces the fundamentals and current challenges of LIBs, followed by a detailed list of various nanomaterials, including two-dimensional materials, metal oxides, carbon-based materials, and their wide-ranging applications in LIBs. The research on nanomaterials has revealed significant enhancements in battery performance, including increased capacity, extended cycle life, and improved charge and discharge rates. Furthermore, this research highlights the sustainability and environmental potential of nanomaterials and their important role in mitigating the scarcity of lithium resources. Finally, it will summarize the potential impact of these studies, highlight the research significance of nanomaterials in the field of battery technology, and provide useful guidance and inspiration for the future development of renewable energy storage and electric transportation. This research will help drive innovation in battery technology and pave the way for a more sustainable energy future.

Application and recycling of lithium-ion batteries

As an emerging technology with a vast worldwide market application and potential over decades, electric vehicles (EVs) have played a significant role in human society to prevent the deterioration of the environment. Meanwhile, the research on lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) in EVs improving their performances, including energy density and cycle life, has recently attracted much attention, aiding the further development of the functions of EVs. This research can be divided into three parts. Firstly, the fundamental of LIBs is presented, including its theory and reasons for having low energy density. Then, the alternative Li-S battery technology employed for EVs is introduced, and its advantages and limitations for future research are illustrated. Lastly, the three main approaches for recycling used LIBs, pyrometallurgical recovery (Pyro.), hydrometallurgical metals reclamation (Hydro.) and direct recycling (Dir.) are elaborated, each of their strengths and weaknesses are shown, and their performances are compared by considering several aspects for selection.

Cellulose-based eutectogel electrolyte with high ionic conductivity for solid-state lithium-ion batteries

It is known that the low ionic conductivity of solid-state polymer electrolytes at room temperature (RT) has severely restricted their practical application in lithium-ion batteries. Although eutectogel (ETG) electrolytes could solve this problem to some extent, highly compatible deep eutectic solvent (DES)/polymer systems are desirable to further enhance ion conduction. Herein, we designed cellulose-based ETG (CETG) with dual channels through “hopping” and “vehicle” mechanisms by hydroxyethyl cellulose (HEC) molecular chains and N-methylacetamide (NMA)/LiTFSI-derived DES, respectively. Thanks to the strong molecular interactions between HEC and DES, the highest DES content in the ETG could achieve 90 %, which endowed the CETG with an excellent ionic conductivity of 2.04 × 10–3 S cm−1 at 30 °C. Additionally, our designed CETG displayed good self-healing and fire retardant properties. The assembled Li/LiFePO4 cell showed a capacity retention of 91.8 % after 200 cycles at 0.2 C under RT with an initial discharge capacity of 156.2 mAh g−1. In particular, the capacity retention rates of the assembled batteries reached 95.2 % and 92.1 %, respectively, after 100 cycles at 0.2 C under 60 °C and 50 cycles at 0.2 C under 100 °C. Our fabrication strategy would provide a novel idea for the design of green, safe and efficient solid-state polymer electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries.

Benchmarking core temperature forecasting for lithium-ion battery using typical recurrent neural networks

One of the factors hindering the scaled application of lithium-ion batteries is their thermal safety issues. Real-time monitoring of core temperature holds promise in alleviating this concern. However, calibrating individual models for thousands of battery cells poses challenges and leads to big data issues. The maturing and rapidly advancing artificial intelligence technologies hold promise in addressing the task of core temperature prediction. In this study, we conduct a benchmark test using typical recurrent neural networks for core temperature prediction. The test encompasses three main aspects: data acquisition, data processing, and data analysis. Firstly, we conduct dynamic battery tests across a wide temperature range on a custom-built experimental platform. Subsequently, we employ big data techniques for data pre-processing, including filtering, normalization, and sliding window methods. Next, hyperparameter optimization is then performed using the Bayesian optimization with Tree-structured Parzen Estimator, followed by K-fold cross validation. Consequently, we obtain three optimal performing models based on typical recurrent neural networks. Finally, we extensively compare these models in terms of performance and complexity. According to the results, all data-driven methods achieve satisfactory model performance, with RMSE within 0.17 °C and MAE within 0.15 °C. Among the models with similar predictive performance conditions, gated recurrent unit exhibits the lowest model complexity and faster training speed. Meanwhile, we also validate the portability and generalizability of the forecasting models. This study lays the foundation for future research in this area and can provide guidance for engineering practical applications to ensure the safe operation of battery energy storage systems.

A novel least squares support vector machine-particle filter algorithm to estimate the state of energy of lithium-ion battery under a wide temperature range

The state of energy (SOE) is a key indicator for lithium-ion battery management systems (BMS). Based on the second-order resistance-capacitance equivalent circuit model and online parameter identification using the dynamic weights particle swarm optimization (DWPSO) method, a least-squares support vector machine-particle filter (LSSVM-PF) algorithm is proposed to construct a particle filter to estimate the SOE of a lithium-ion battery, and then transfer the resulting estimation error together with the experimentally measured voltage and current values to a trained LSSVM model, and use the LSSVM model to optimize the SOE estimates obtained by the PF algorithm twice to improve the accuracy of SOE estimation for lithium-ion batteries. The feasibility of the proposed algorithm is verified using two complex operating conditions and at three different temperatures. The validation results show that the maximum error of SOE estimation of the proposed algorithm is 0.0284 for a wide temperature range under Beijing Bus Dynamic Stress Test (BBDST) condition, and 0.0226 for a wide temperature range under Dynamic Stress Test (DST) condition. The proposed algorithm significantly improves the accuracy of SOE estimation and provides a reference for fundamental applications of lithium-ion batteries.

Realizing the dendrite-free sulfide-based all-solid-state Li metal battery by surface design

Although the ultrahigh ionic conductivity of sulfide-type solid electrolytes is comparable to that of liquid electrolytes, the low critical current density (CCD) limits the practical application of solid-state lithium (Li) metal batteries. The insufficient Li0 self-diffusion in solid Li leads to the voids that form at the interface at a large stripping current density, which results in interface contact loss and the increase of local current density. Herein, an artificial hybrid interphase layer dominated by Li3Sb and LiF was constructed on the Li surface to explore the Li plating/stripping behavior at the Li/Li6PS5Cl interface. The Li3Sb alloy provides a fast Li0 diffusion channel to avoid the interfacial voids formation and current focusing, while the electrically insulated LiF acts an electron blocking shield at the Li/Li6PS5Cl interface. Consequently, the symmetric cells reveal a significantly increased CCD of 1.8 mA cm−2 and a stable Li plating/stripping for 1472 h with a high current density of 2 mA cm−2 at 50 °C. Moreover, the all-solid-state Li-SPAN cell with Li3Sb/LiF interphase exhibits good capacity retention of 83.2 % after 120 cycles at 0.5 C, and it also delivers a superior rate performance of 400 mAh g−1 at 5C. The construction of lithium-alloy interphase is a promising alternative to solid-state lithium battery applications.

Metal sulfide-decorated lamellar porous carbon framework hybrids for fast lithium storage with high volumetric capacity

Porous carbon nanosheets have shown great potential in electrochemical energy storage devices, yet their intrinsic limited volumetric capacity and energy density remain a great concern. Herein, lamellar porous carbon framework hybrids (LPCFHs) have been facilely developed by thermal-induced bulk self-assembly of block copolymers with precisely controllable molecular structure, followed by stepwise chemical crosslinking and morphology-persistent carbonization processes. The as-obtained LPCFHs consist of densely covalent connected alternate layers (porous carbon nanosheets and porous carbon spacers) and homogenously dispersed metal sulfide nanoparticles. The ordered compact stacking structure of carbon nanosheets endows LPCFHs with a high tap density and fast electron transfer both in lateral and vertical dimension, while the porous carbon spacers enable fast channels for ion transfer. Moreover, the metal sulfide nanoparticles strongly interacted with carbon nanosheets are homogenously distributed in LPCFHs, resulting in sufficient active sites. As a result, when used as anode materials in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), tin sulfide-decorated LPCFHs (LPCFHs-SnS) deliver a volumetric capacity of up to 1285 mAh cm−3; meanwhile, high-rate capability (488 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1) and excellent cycling stability (capacity retention of 88.3 % after 500 cycles at 1 A g−1) are also achieved, demonstrating great potential for practical application in LIBs.

Ternary composites of poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) with silver nanowires and titanium dioxide nanoparticles as separator membranes for lithium-ion batteries

In the realm of polymer composites, there is growing interest in the use of more than one filler for achieving multifunctional properties. In this work, a composite separator membrane has been developed for lithium-ion battery application, by incorporating conductive silver nanowires (AgNWs) and titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles into a poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (PVDF-HFP) polymer matrix. The composite membranes were manufactured by solvent casting and thermally induced phase separation, with total filler content varying up to 10 wt%. The ternary composites composites present improved mechanical characteristics, ionic conductivity and lithium transfer number compared to the neat polymer matrix. On the other hand, the filler type and content within the composite has little bearing on the morphology, polymer phase, or thermal stability. Once applied as a separator in lithium-ion batteries, the highest discharge capacity value was obtained for the 5 wt% AgNWs/5 wt% TiO2/PVDF-HFP membrane at different C-rates, benefiting from the synergetic effect from both fillers. This work demonstrates that higher battery performance can be achieved for next-generation lithium-ion batteries by using separator membranes based on ternary composites.

Synthesis and Characterization of MnIn2S4/Single-Walled Carbon Nanotube Composites as an Anode Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries.

In this study, we synthesized a transition metal sulfide (TMS) with a spinel structure, i.e., MnIn2S4 (MIS), using a two-step hydrothermal and sintering process. In the context of lithium-ion battery (LIB) applications, ternary TMSs are being considered as interesting options for anode materials. This consideration arises from their notable attributes, including high theoretical capacity, excellent cycle stability, and cost-effectiveness. However, dramatic volume changes result in the electrochemical performance being severely limited, so we introduced single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and prepared an MIS/SWCNT composite to enhance the structural stability and electronic conductivity. The synthesized MIS/SWCNT composite exhibits better cycle performance than bare MIS. Undergoing 100 cycles, MIS only yields a reversible capacity of 117 mAh/g at 0.1 A/g. However, the MIS/SWCNT composite exhibits a reversible capacity as high as 536 mAh/g after 100 cycles. Moreover, the MIS/SWCNT composite shows a better rate capability. The current density increases with cycling, and the SWCNT composite exhibits high reversible capacities of 232 and 102 mAh/g at 2 A/g and 5 A/g, respectively. Under the same conditions, pristine MIS can only deliver reversible capacities of 21 and 4 mAh/g. The results indicate that MIS/SWCNT composites are promising anode materials for LIBs.