The Influence of Slurry Rheology on Lithium‐ion Electrode Processing

This chapter focuses on the rheological behaviour of lithium-ion electrode slurries, as it is an important processing parameter in every stage of the electrode manufacturing process. It discusses the formulation and preparation of the slurries, followed by coating of slurries to produce wet electrode films and finally drying of electrodes. The chapter also discusses the rheological behaviour of slurry and its influence on various processing stages. It summarizes various components commonly used for lithium-ion battery electrodes. The chapter describes the three main rheological characteristics of electrode slurries in terms of shear-viscosity, viscoelasticity, and yield stress and their roles at various stages of processing. The homogeneity of electrode slurry is critical in the production of wet electrode film through coating and drying processes, and overall battery performance. In the mixing process, the sequence of adding various electrode components and the mixing method affects the slurry rheology and the degree of particle dispersion in the mixture.