Li, B.; Wang, S.; He, P.; Huang, Z.; Mai, B.; Zhang, X.; Chen, Y.; Wen, Y.; Ran, X.; Han, C.; Manke, I.; Dong, K.; Yan, M.: Pore microstructure and mass transfer dynamics in thick electrodes for high energy density lithium-ion batteries. Chemical Engineering Journal 511 (2025), p. 161931/1-7
10.1016/j.cej.2025.161931
Abstract:
Developing high-mass-loading electrodes holds great promise for enhancing the energy density of Li-ion batteries. However, increasing mass loading also leads to thicker electrodes, significantly altering the electrode’s microstructure. Using advanced multi-scale imaging, the three-dimensional pore structure and mass transfer dynamic at micro-meter scale in both thick and thin LiCoO2 and their impacts on electrochemical performance and redox homogeneity at nano-scale are investigated. We demonstrate that the halved porosity and increased tortuosity in thick electrodes result in poor electrolyte infiltration, which is a key factor contributing to capacity degradation. This finding underscores the critical role of wetting in thick electrodes and necessitates the need to optimize pore distribution, porosity, and tortuosity when thick electrodes are employed to boost the energy density of Li-ion batteries.