LIBs Summary and Prospects
Research in lithium ion batteries (LIBs) has focused on both active and non-active components. Flexible packaging of LIBs has been achieved by using aluminum pouch cells, polymer-coated aluminum pouch, and polymeric pouch cells. Polydimethylsiloxane material has also proved to be an excellent material suitable for packaging. Research in flexible materials has incorporated the element of cost. Laminate structures have been found to be less costly than the current technology in use. Separators for LIBs need to be not only thin, but also highly porous Cellulose nano-fiber paper-derived (CNP) and ceramic-based separators have shown impressive performance. Manufacturing of LIBs requires some specialized manufacturing. Various wet and dry process has been explored with commercially successful one being liquid extraction and activation technique. Flexibility in current collectors has been achieved with the use of expanded graphite. Nickel coated polyester and conducting papers have been also investigated and they have demonstrated promising results. Manufacturing of metallic current collectors has been achieved by employing a reactive-ion etching process. New additives used to improve the properties of electrodes have been investigated and has resulted in greener, efficient, and safe LIBs. These include the use of CNTs at lower weight loading. Fabrication methods employed in electrodes are nanotechnology based. Gel-type and composite electrolytes have been used to improve flexibility of LIBs. The cost element has been also a factor in the selection of electrolytes. Solid electrolytes show promising use in flexible LIBs than gel and liquid-based electrolytes.
Obtaining LIBs with truly optimized core units: solid electrolytes that conform to shape, electrode materials which are nano-structured and soft electrodes has been a big challenge. This is because the materials used to manufacture the various components have their advantages and disadvantages. Faced with these challenges, the future prospects of research in flexible LIBs aim to build on the findings of previous studies. For example, future research will be focused on the use of novel technologies such as incorporation of printing and painting technologies in LIBs. Other recent studies in LIBs include research findings on highly-efficient and nonreactive electrolytes, flexible packaging and current collectors, separators that have great mechanical and chemical stability, and additive materials that greatly enhance electron flow.
