The use of FCNT/PANI nanocomposites to extend the life of lithium-ion batteries

Abstract

Abstract The contact between aluminum foil (current collector) and LiTFSI salt electrolyte not only causes surface corrosion problems but also decreases the shelf life of the lithium-ion battery (LIB). In this work, we develop new composites coatings that are able to protect the aluminum foil from corrosion in the LIB. The new composites contain functionalized carbon nanotubes and polyaniline conductive polymer (FCNT/PANI). The performance of new composites is evaluated using various experiments including cyclic voltammetry (CV) and chronoamperometry (CA). The charge and discharge cycles of the LIB cell with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) are used to investigate the battery performance and the morphology of the aluminum foil. Towards anti-corrosion application, FCNT/PANI composites can successfully suppress the pitting corrosion of Al foil in 1.0 M LiTFSI electrolyte. The FCNT/PANI composite that uses 1.0% FCNT shows a superior rate capability and anti-corrosion performance when compared with composites that use the 0.2 and 0.5% FCNT. Further, the lithium-ion battery with coated Al foils with FCNT/PANI composites gives an excellent cyclability. Overall, these results confirm that the FCNT/PANI composites are a determining factor for lithium-ion battery efficiency.