Aqueous-based high nickel electrodes manufacturing using sustainable cellulose nanomaterials as protector

Researchers have developed a sustainable process for producing high-performance, aqueous-based NMC cathodes using cellulose nanomaterials, enhancing lithium-ion battery applications.

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Background

In the manufacturing of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), water-based (aqueous) systems for electrode fabrication have advantages of being low-cost, non-toxic, and environmentally friendly as compared to organic solvent-based (non-aqueous) systems. However, certain promising cathode materials, including nickel-rich metal layered oxides, particularly LiNi_1-x-yCo_xMn_yO₂ (NMC), lack humidity stability, which ultimately degrades their electrochemical performance. There is a strong need within industry for technology that enables high performance aqueous-based NMC electrodes.  

Description

Northeastern researchers have created a new process for producing aqueous-based NMC cathodes that maintain strong electrochemical performance. The process involves the use of wood-derived sustainable cellulose nanomaterials as a binder for nickel-rich cathode materials. A combination of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) and cellulose nanofibrils (CNF) in a water solution forms the base for adding NMC particles and conductive additives to produce an innovative electrode slurry. This composite material uniquely integrates renewable resources with conventional electrode components, aiming to enhance both performance and sustainability in lithium-ion battery applications. The use of resource-efficient, less environmentally damaging production processes and the potential for superior mechanical properties, has the potential to set a new standard for electrode manufacturing.

Benefits

• Provides a more sustainable and environmentally friendly manufacturing process.
• Reduces costs by removing use of expensive solvents.
• Exhibits comparable charge capacities and improved cycling stability to NMP-based NMC electrodes.
• Use of biodegradable nanomaterials provides greater ease of recycling batteries

Applications:

• Electric vehicles
• Consumer electronics.
• Aerospace and defense
• Energy grid storage
• Medical devices