Influence of Ar–H2–SF6 thermal plasma treatment of MCMB powders on the anode properties of a lithium ion rechargeable battery

The surface structure and the anode performance of lithium ion rechargeable batteries, made with MCMB and Ar–H2–SF6-plasma-treated powders, have been studied under comparative conditions. The treatment process, producing surface modification and the introduction of sulfur and fluorine into the particles by the Ar–H2–SF6 plasma, greatly improved the electrochemical properties of the powder. The lithium ion rechargeable cell with plasma-treated powder anode had a discharge capacity as much as 13% greater than the untreated powder anode cell, while its irreversible capacity loss (ICL) was as much as 14% less. The intended function of the incorporated sulfur and fluorine and the surface modification were their contributions to anode properties improvement.