Fundamental methods of electrochemical characterization of Li insertion materials for battery researchers

Abstract

AbstractLi-ion batteries have gained intensive attention as a key technology for realizing a sustainable society without dependence on fossil fuels. To further increase the versatility of Li-ion batteries, considerable research efforts have been devoted to developing a new class of Li insertion materials, which can reversibly store Li-ions in host structures and are used for positive/negative electrode materials of Li-ion batteries. Appropriate evaluations of electrochemical properties of Li insertion materials are essential for the research of electrode materials in laboratory. In this article, we describe fundamental methods of electrochemical characterization of Li insertion materials including electrode preparation, cell assembly, and electrochemical measurement in the laboratory-scale research. The importance of selection for battery components such as electrolyte solutions, polymer binders, separators, and current collectors on the electrochemical properties of Li insertion materials, is also discussed. This article offers basic knowledge and techniques for electrochemical characterizations of Li insertion materials to students and beginners for battery research.