Three-Dimensionally Porous Li-Ion and Li-S Battery Cathodes: A Mini Review for Preparation Methods and Energy-Storage Performance

Abstract

Among many types of batteries, Li-ion and Li-S batteries have been of great interest because of their high energy density, low self-discharge, and non-memory effect, among other aspects. Emerging applications require batteries with higher performance factors, such as capacity and cycling life, which have motivated many research efforts on constructing high-performance anode and cathode materials. Herein, recent research about cathode materials are particularly focused on. Low electron and ion conductivities and poor electrode stability remain great challenges. Three-dimensional (3D) porous nanostructures commonly exhibit unique properties, such as good Li+ ion diffusion, short electron transfer pathway, robust mechanical strength, and sufficient space for volume change accommodation during charge/discharge, which make them promising for high-performance cathodes in batteries. A comprehensive summary about some cutting-edge investigations of Li-ion and Li-S battery cathodes is presented. As demonstrative examples, LiCoO2, LiMn2O4, LiFePO4, V2O5, and LiNi1−x−yCoxMnyO2 in pristine and modified forms with a 3D porous structure for Li-ion batteries are introduced, with a particular focus on their preparation methods. Additionally, S loaded on 3D scaffolds for Li-S batteries is discussed. In addition, the main challenges and potential directions for next generation cathodes have been indicated, which would be beneficial to researchers and engineers developing high-performance electrodes for advanced secondary batteries.

Application Progress of Polyaniline, Polypyrrole and Polythiophene in Lithium-Sulfur Batteries

“…Therefore, the S/PPy cathode delivered an enhanced reversible capacity and cycling stability compared to that of a pure sulfur cathode. In addition, Xie et al [60] synthesized a PO 4 3− doped PPy layer on the surface of as-produced nanosulfur particles, as shown in Figure 4a. Different from the traditional Cl − doping by using FeCl 3 , the PO 4 3− doped PPy enhanced the conductivity of composite.…”

Ultrafast-Laser Micro-Structuring of LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 Cathode for High-Rate Capability of Three-Dimensional Li-ion Batteries

“…The conventional Li-ion batteries (LIBs) have several limitations, such as low energy density, high cost of the active material, and poor thermal stability [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]; hence, their use is limited. However, LiNi x Mn y Co z O 2 (NMC) has been attracting increasing attention as a promising cathode material with a higher specific capacity and energy density than that of the conventional LiCoO 2 (LCO) [ 4 , 5 ].…”

Direct ink writing of metal‐based electrocatalysts for Li–S batteries with efficient polysulfide conversion

“…(3) the undesirable shuttle effect of soluble intermediate (lithium polysulfides [LiPSs]). [11][12][13] These problems often together lead to significant depletion of active sulfur and a marked decrease in battery capacity.…”