Characterization of 3D architectures of lithium-ion micro-batteries fabricated by laser-assisted manufacturing

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Wilhelm Pfleging
• Subject Area: Synthesis and Properties of Functional Materials ; Physical Chemistry of Solids and Surfaces, Material Characterisation
• Term: from 2018 to 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 392322200

The project addresses basic and application oriented scientific questions in the field of energy storage materials with 3D electrode architecture. In this joint effort, modeling and simulation as well as fabrication and characterization will contribute equally. Our work is aiming at the scientific foundations of processes, materials and devices that are needed for future battery technology. The overall goal of this project to provide both experimental and theoretical guidelines for the development of high energy and high power density 3D micro-batteries.To achieve this, a number of sub-objectives have to be fulfilled:1. Using ultrafast laser ablation/patterning of nickel-enriched Li(NiMnCo)O2 positive thick film electrodes and Si/C negative thick film electrodes, 3D electrode architectures with capacities up to 1-5 Ah will be prepared and optimized regarding an excellent cycle stability (>5000) under high rates (> 1C) while maintaining 80% of the initial capacity. 2. Using 3D additive printing method and laser sintering methods in order to realize 3D structured micro-batteries with capacities up to 1-5Ah through optimizing of the structure and design of integrated electrodes.3. Combination of 3D additive printing and ultrafast laser patterning for achieving unique synergetic effects with respect to structural accuracy and designing flexibility for 3D integrated electrodes and complete full cells. 4. Surface modification by Atomic Layer Deposition for precise adjustment of electrochemical performance of 3D electrode architectures.5. Realization of optimized high energy/power densities in Atomic Layer Deposition modified 3D structured batteries by identification of structural and chemical effects from atomic scale, nanometer scale, up to the micrometer scale using real-time studies of fine structure evolution mechanisms with in-situ electron microscopy. Post-mortem studies using Laser-induced Breakdown Spectroscopy will be used to extrapolate chemical effects on micrometer, millimeter and entire electrode scale.Our multidisciplinary approach will focus on 3D printing, laser-assisted materials processing on micro- and nano-scale, interface modification by atomic layer deposition, in-situ electron microscopy method and post mortem analysis, for a systematic study of the relationship between the electrochemical performance and the 3D microstructure of batteries. Fundamental questions on electron/Li-ion transportations mechanisms in 3D electrode architectures and interfaces will be investigated. The project will combine accurate experimental characterization and theoretical simulation/calculation to speed up the development of advanced cell architectures for lithium-ion batteries. The new ideas, models, methods arise from the project will upgrade the core competitiveness, which positions China and Germany the world's advanced role in the field of renewable energy and energy storage systems.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: China
• Partner Organisation: National Natural Science Foundation of China
• Cooperation Partners: Dr. Anming Hu; Professor Dr. Ruzhi Wang; Dr. Yuefei Zhang