Tailoring the Binder of Composite Electrode for Battery Performance Optimization

To increase electrode cycling performance in lithium batteries, most researchers generally play on the active material optimization. In this paper, it is shown that there is also a need for fundamental studies in the field of nonactive components of the composite electrode. Optimization of the environment of active material within the composite electrode leads to a room-temperature cycling capacity of 280 mAh/g instead of 180 mAh/g with Bellcore-type electrode. Well performing composite electrode was achieved with efficient electronic conduction network, good carbon interface, and total collection of active material grains. The key role of the homogeneous and efficient carbon black (CB) distribution, due to good interactions between pre-plastifed polyethylene oxide binder and CB, and optimized PEO/CB ratio, has been determined. © 2004 The Electrochemical Society. All rights reserved.