Evaluation of slurry characteristics for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries

A multi-component slurry for rechargeable batteries is prepared by dispersing LiCoO2, conductive additives, and polymeric binders in a solvent. The physical properties, including rheological, morphological, electrical, and spectroscopic features of battery slurries are investigated. The relationship between the measured physical properties and the internal structure of the slurry is analyzed. It is found that the rheological behavior of the slurry is determined by the interaction of active materials and binding materials (e.g., network structure) and that the dispersion state of conductive additives (e.g., agglomeration) also depends on the binder-carbon interaction. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.