Solvent-Free Processed Cathode Slurry with Carbon Nanotube Conductors for Li-Ion Batteries.

The increase in demand for energy storage devices, including portable electronic devices, electronic mobile devices, and energy storage systems, has led to substantial growth in the market for Li-ion batteries (LiB). However, the resulting environmental concerns from the waste of LiB and pollutants from the manufacturing process have attracted considerable attention. In particular, N-methylpyrrolidone, which is utilized during the manufacturing process for preparing cathode or anode slurries, is a toxic organic pollutant. Therefore, the dry-based process for electrodes is of special interest nowadays. Herein, we report the fabrication of a cathode by a mortar-based dry process using NCM811, a carbon conductor, and poly(tetrafluoroethylene)binder. The electrochemical performance of the cathode was compared in terms of the types of conductors: carbon nanotubes and carbon black. The electrodes with carbon nanotubes showed an ameliorated performance in terms of cycle testing, capacity retention, and mechanical properties.