Analysis of integrated electrode stacks for lithium ion batteries

In an effort to reduce the cost of manufacturing lithium ion batteries, a novel approach is being developed to build a one piece integrated cell via layer by layer coating deposition rather than manufacturing separate pieces followed by electrode stacking and assembly. This new process would hold several advantages by providing excellent contact and thinner deposits, which will conserve space for energy storing materials while reducing production costs. Anode and cathode half stacks are made using a new process and the electrodes have been investigated in coin cells. Each half stack consists of a current collector, electrode, and separator combined into a single component. The stack cells successfully cycle as graphite stack/lithium and LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3O2/lithium cells and together in graphite stack/LiNi1/3Mn1/3Co1/3O2 stack cell arrangements. Cross sectional SEM images show very little change in the anode and cathode materials indicating that the material is stable under typical cycling conditions and at moderately elevated temperature (55 °C). While the electrode stacks investigated are not optimized, the results support good cycling performance for a stacked cell design.