Characterizing Interfacial Interactions in Li-Ion Batteries

Characterizing interfacial interactions in Li-ion batteries

Praveen Meduri,^* Michael A. Hickner^*

^*Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, State College, PA - 16801

Vibrational spectroscopy is an effective tool to identify the molecular structures based on the frequencies of normal vibrational modes of molecules. In particular, IR and Raman spectroscopies are complimentary techniques which give great detail on the functional groups in a material.  FTIR and Raman techniques can also help to quantify changes in materials with degradation or changes in surface bonding.

The use of a polymeric binder is needed in anodes for Li-ion batteries to prevent gradual degradation of the electrode structure and retain capacities over long cycles. However, the use of different binders leads to varied battery performances with a particular material. This study is aimed to better understand the inorganic material-polymer interactions in electrodes of Li-ion batteries and their impact on battery performance. Silicon is an interesting anode material due to its high capacity and large volume change on cycling. We aim to fundamentally understand the silicon-polymer interactions using FTIR and Raman spectroscopy. Several polymers will be studied including sulfonated polyether ether ketone (SPEEK), sulfonated radel (polyphenylsulfone) and Sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (NaCMC).