New publication on an inexpensive method of manufacturing composite cathodes for solid-state batteries in the journal Advanced Science
Solid-state batteries are safer and more durable than conventional lithium-ion batteries as they do not contain flammable liquid electrolyte. New manufacturing processes for cathodes are crucial to simplify production, reduce costs and optimize the efficiency of batteries for large-scale use. A new method for producing LLZO/LiCoO2 composite cathodes could revolutionize the production of solid-state batteries. A new method for producing composite cathodes for solid-state batteries was investigated at IEK-1, in which Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZO) is integrated directly into the cathode production process. The innovative approach eliminates the need for prefabricated LLZO powders by forming LLZO from metal oxide reactants in a single step during sintering. This simplifies production, reduces costs and saves energy. The process utilizes film casting, which enables large-scale, continuous production of high-density composite cathodes. Optimized microstructures guarantee dense, phase-pure cathodes without undesirable secondary phase formation. These cathodes have been tested in solid state cells with lithium metal anodes and show a competitive capacity, although further improvements are required to optimize cycle stability.
Source: V. Kiyek, C. Schwab, W. S. Scheld, C. Roitzheim, A. Lindner, W. Menesklou, M. Finsterbusch, D. Fattakhova-Rohlfing, O. Guillon
Direct Precursor Route for the Fabrication of LLZO Composite Cathodes for Solid-State Batteries. Advanced Science 2024, 2404682.