Enhancing the performances of Li-ion batteries by carbon-coating: present and future

With progress of knowledge of electrode materials, it has been found that their surface structures are of great importance to the electrochemical performance of Li-ion batteries. Carbon coating can effectively increase the electrode conductivity, improve the surface chemistry of the active material, and protect the electrode from direct contact with electrolyte, leading to enhanced cycle life of the batteries. Carbon coating together with nanotechnology provides good conductivity as well as fast Li-ion diffusion, and thus also results in good rate capabilities. The recent development of carbon coating techniques in lithium-ion batteries is discussed with detailed examples of typical cathode and anode materials. The limitation of current technology and future perspective of the new concept of "hybrid coating" are also pointed out.