Solid-state batteries (SSBs) hold great promise for revolutionizing energy storage with their higher energy density and enhanced safety compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). One crucial aspect of SSB development is the selection of cathode materials, with Ni-rich layered cathodes traditionally being favored for their high energy density. However, recent studies have shed light on the benefits of crack-free, single-crystalline cathode materials in improving the performance of all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs).
In a groundbreaking study, researchers utilized a scalable infiltration sheet-type process to create composite electrodes with various cathode-material morphologies for ASSBs. Typically, single-crystalline materials that are free from cracks display superior retention performance but slower kinetics in charge‒discharge processes compared to polycrystalline cathode materials. However, in this study, the composite electrodes infiltrated with Li6PS5Cl, a solid electrolyte, demonstrated remarkable electrochemical performance, showcasing the importance of material morphology and interface engineering.
Researchers employed techniques such as galvanostatic intermittent titration and transmission electron microscopy to investigate the characteristics of the electrodes. Their analysis revealed severe polarization and the presence of a rock-salt-structure layer within the single-crystalline cathode particles, indicating side reactions in the layered material structure. In contrast, the composite electrodes containing polycrystalline cathode materials infiltrated with Li6PS5Cl exhibited excellent retention performance and rate capability, attributed to the intimate contact between the electrode and electrolyte.
These findings highlight the critical influence of material morphology and interface engineering on the overall performance and stability of ASSBs. By utilizing crack-free single-crystalline cathode materials in combination with solid electrolyte infiltration, researchers have paved the way for the development of high-performance ASSBs in the future. This research opens new avenues for further exploration and optimization of ASSBs, bringing us closer to a future powered by safer, more energy-dense batteries.
Solid-state batteries (SSBs) are a type of battery that use solid materials for both the cathode and electrolyte, offering higher energy density and improved safety compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries (LIBs).
A cathode is one of the electrodes in a battery where the positive ions are attracted and undergo reduction during discharge.
Ni-rich layered cathodes are cathode materials that contain a high proportion of nickel and are traditionally favored for their high energy density.
All-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) are solid-state batteries where both the cathode and electrolyte are solid materials.
A composite electrode is an electrode made up of multiple materials that have been combined together.
The charge-discharge process refers to the cycle of the battery being charged and then discharged to provide electrical energy.
A solid electrolyte is a solid material that acts as an ion conductor, allowing the movement of ions between the cathode and anode in a battery.
Polarization refers to the buildup of charge at the electrode-electrolyte interface during the operation of a battery, which can lead to decreased performance.
A rock-salt-structure layer is a specific crystal structure that may be present within the cathode material.
Galvanostatic intermittent titration is a technique used to measure the electrochemical properties of materials.
Transmission electron microscopy is a microscopy technique that uses electrons to examine the structure of materials at a high resolution.
The intimate contact between the electrode and electrolyte refers to a close and direct connection between the two materials.
This research demonstrates the importance of material morphology (the physical structure and arrangement of materials) and interface engineering (optimizing the interaction between different materials) in the performance and stability of ASSBs.
The use of crack-free single-crystalline cathode materials in combination with solid electrolyte infiltration shows promise for high-performance ASSBs in the future.
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