Particle size and zeta potential of electrode materials: better characterization, better performance

The efficiency of portable devices like mobile phones relies heavily on rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, known for their high voltage and energy density. Understanding particle characteristics is crucial for optimizing battery performance and ensuring longevity across various applications, from speakers to electric vehicles.

The battery market is undergoing a period of unprecedented growth as the demand for energy-intensive technologies continues to rise. Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries represent one of the most common rechargeable energy storage devices, widely used in electronics, electric vehicles, and renewable energy systems. These batteries are composed of a cathode (positive electrode), an anode (negative electrode), and an electrolyte that facilitates the movement of lithium ions between the electrodes (1). During the charging process, lithium ions move from the cathode to the anode, and during the discharging process, they return to the cathode, releasing the stored energy that is then used to power devices (2).

Typically, Li-ion batteries comprise a cathode of lithium metal oxides on aluminum foil and an anode of carbon on copper foil. The aforementioned foils serve as current collectors, facilitating the transfer of energy to the devices in question. Lithium ions traverse between the electrodes through an electrolyte solution, which is composed of a lithium salt (e.g. LiPF6) dissolved in an organic solvent (e.g. diethyl carbonate). The solution covers the separator membrane and the latter is responsible for preventing internal short circuits caused by the flow of electrons inside the battery.

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