Objectives: The final electrode structure strongly depends on the electrode slurry mixing,coating, and drying process conditions. During processing of the semulti - component systems, the solution forms a gel under certain conditions and it is unclear whether this gel is favorable in achieving optimum final electrode film morphology and structure. The SUNL DC will perform a systematic study to gain a fundamental understanding on the connection between processing conditions, solution structure before drying, during drying, and the overall performance of the electrodes/films produced. Relating these processes to the electrode microstructure, particularly electronic conductivity, is necessary for further improvements of high quality electrode manufacturing. Tools will include rheometry and combination with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (Rheo - EIS) and confocal microscopy (rheo - confocal), and TEM/SEM and rheo -conductimetry in collaboration with FORTH (Glynos) and CNRS (Gibaud). The evaluation of electrode performance,fabricated with the developed processing protocols in prototype batteries willperformed at SUNL.
Academic secondment: The DC will be at FORTH (17M/M01 - M17) to work on shear induced tuning for batteries slurries and electric measurements. CNRS (1M/M18): rheo-conductimetry study of electrode slurries.
Industrial secondments: ADV (1M/M28) Compare developed electrode slurry processing protocols with ADV industrial formulations for catalytic inks.
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