Modification of Graphene Anode Morphologies via Wet and Dry Milling

Graphene, an individual graphite monolayer, is being considered for use in lithium ion anodes as there is a technological drive to make batteries thinner, lighter and more flexible whilst maintaining or increasing cell capacity and cyclability. Due to its mono/few-layer platelet structure graphene may potentially be affected by mechanical processing routes. Here the effects that dry milling and wet milling have on graphene nanoplatelets and graphene anode solutions have been investigated. It was found that dry milling for 15 minutes causes graphene nanoplatelets to form agglomerated graphite, but that wet milling of graphene anode solution results in reduced porosity and smoother electrodes without visibly destroying the nanoplatelets.