Research

ABSTRACT: 

Binders hold a pivotal role in the process of electrode fabrication, ensuring the cohesion and stability of active materials, conductive additives, and electrolytes within battery systems. They play a critical part in establishing essential pathways for both electrons and ions, fundamental to the efficacious lithiation and delithiation processes. Despite their relatively minor presence in terms of concentration compared to active materials, binders exert significant influence on the physical characteristics and electrochemical performance of electrodes. With the increasing demand for Electric Vehicles and energy storage systems, the necessity for batteries with heightened energy densities and economically viable production methods has escalated. This necessitates the development of more efficient binder materials.

This comprehensive review delves into the multifaceted realm of binders utilized in battery production, commencing with traditional polymer binders. It critically examines their limitations in high-temperature and conductivity-demanding environments, necessitating the exploration of inorganic binders. However, these inorganic binders often lack adhesion capabilities compared to polymer binders. The review further delves into the realm of hybrid binders, strategically amalgamating the benefits of polymeric and inorganic binders. Moreover, it evaluates the concept of multifunctional binders, which also contribute to the electrode interface, conductivity, high stability and provides self-healing properties to the electrode along with binding properties. Additionally, the review addresses recent advancements in binder technology, particularly in the context of sodium-ion batteries, silicon anodes, Lithium-Oxygen batteries, and other emerging energy storage technologies. The systematic exploration of diverse binder types and their distinctive attributes contributes significantly to the optimization and progression of battery technologies. As the energy storage landscape continues its dynamic evolution, the insights presented herein serve as a valuable foundation for innovative binder design and application, catalyzing advancements in the field. Importantly, the review concludes by shedding light on the flourishing use of machine learning methodologies in the development of emerging binder technologies, amplifying the trajectory of battery innovation.

ABSTRACT: 

In this work, we report the results of density functional theory (DFT) calculations on van der Waals (VdW) heterostructure formed by vertically stacking single-layers of tungsten disulfide and graphene (WS2/graphene) for employing them in Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) as an anode material. The electronic properties of the heterostructure reveal that the graphene layer helps to improve the electronic conductivity of this hybrid system. The phonon calculations demonstrate that WS2/graphene heterostructure is dynamically stable. Indeed, the charge transfer from Li to WS2/graphene heterostructure further improves their metallic character. Moreover, the Li binding energy in this heterostructure was higher than that of Li-metal's cohesive energy, which indicates the possibility of Li- dendrite formation in this WS2/graphene electrode is low. The ab-initio molecular dynamics (AIMD) simulation of lithiated WS2/graphene heterostructure shows the thermal stability of the system. In addition, the effect of heteroatoms like boron (B) and nitrogen (N) doping on the graphene layer of the heterostructure on Li-adsorption ability is also explored here. The results suggest that B-doping improves the Li-adsorption energy. Interestingly, the computed open-circuit voltage (OCV) and Li-diffusion energy barrier also favor that this heterostructure can act as a promising anode material for LIBs.

ABSTRACT: 

The unique electrochemical performance of the transition metal sulphide-based electrode materials attracts the researchers to develop high performance energy storage systems. Cobalt disulphide (CoS2) is found to be an efficient electrode material due to its excellent stability. In this work, we present the fabrication of high performance asymmetric supercapacitor device using CoS2 and f-MWCNT (functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotube) decorated with CoS2 (CoS2@f-MWCNT), which is synthesised by CTAB (cetyltrimethylammonium bromide) surfactant assisted single-step hydrothermal technique. Electrochemical performance of CoS2 and CoS2@f-MWCNT composites are investigated. The results demonstrate that CoS2 and CoS2@f-MWCNT displayed a higher specific capacitance of 398 Fg-1 and 623 Fg-1 at 1 Ag-1 with cycling stability of 94.1% and 97.4 % capacitance retention after 10000 cycles at 5 Ag-1 respectively. For practical applicability, asymmetric supercapacitor coin cells(ASC) CoS2//AC and CoS2@f-MWCNT//AC are assembled which exhibits high energy density of 13.8 and 23.8 Whkg-1 with power density of 982.6 and 1113 Wkg-1 respectively. Owing to its high electrochemical performance CoS2@f-MWCNT//AC ASC device is utilized for power supply unit for digital clock and power five red light emitting diode (LED) bulbs. According to these findings, the CoS2@f-MWCNT nanocomposite electrode, which is synthesised via a simpleand affordable synthesis process, exhibits good electrochemical energy storage performance and has a promising future as an electrode material for the use of supercapacitors with excellent performance.

ABSTRACT: 

As the demand for high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) continues to rise, silicon (Si) has emerged as a promising candidate for anode materials due to its exceptional theoretical capacity. This review paper provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in Si anode technology, focusing on the morphological evolution of Si nanostructures, innovations in electrolyte formulations, and modifications of binders to enhance the performance and stability of LIBs.

The first section explores the significant strides made in tailoring the morphology of Si nanostructures, emphasizing the importance of nanoscale design to mitigate the challenges associated with the large volume expansion and contraction during lithiation and delithiation cycles. Various nanostructured Si materials, such as nanowires, nanotubes, and porous architectures, are discussed in terms of their impact on cycling stability and rate capability.

The second section delves into the improvements achieved in electrolyte formulations for Si anodes. Addressing issues related to the solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI) formation and electrolyte depletion, recent developments in electrolyte additives, salts, and solvents are explored. The focus is on enhancing the SEI stability, ion conductivity, and overall electrochemical performance of Si anodes.

The third section highlights modifications in binder materials employed for Si anodes. The role of binders in maintaining electrode integrity and accommodating the volume changes of Si during cycling is crucial. Recent advancements in binder chemistry and design, including the use of conductive polymers and multifunctional additives, are discussed for their impact on improving the mechanical stability and electrical conductivity of Si-based anodes.

This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the recent breakthroughs in Si anode technology, offering insights into the synergistic effects achieved through the integration of advanced nanostructures, optimized electrolyte formulations, and tailored binder materials. By addressing the challenges associated with Si anodes, this paper contributes to the ongoing efforts to develop high-performance and long-lasting LIBs for diverse applications.

• IPO number: 202341048089

• Filled country and Year: India & 2023

• Description: NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt oxide) is a popular cathode material for lithium-ion batteries due to its high energy density. However, the inherent hard material property of NMC makes it difficult to develop a scalable process for dry coating of cathode electrodes. This patent discusses an electrode formulation for dry battery electrode for the cathode side and a process to fabricate the cathode electrode which overcomes the difficulty of processing cathode active material and has the potential to be scaled up to the mass production stage.

• IPO number: 202341047629

• Filled country and Year: India & 2023

• Description: The extent of PTFE fibrillation determines the mechanical integrity and structural stability of the dry battery electrode film. This patent discusses a pre-treatment method for PTFE to increase its fibrillation, thereby enhancing the structural stability and mechanical integrity of the dry battery electrode.