• Energy Research

In this paper we report on the use of the ionic liquid N-butyl-N-methylpyrrolidinium bis(trifluoromethansulfonyl)imide, PYR14TFSI, in combination with a graphite and silicon electrodes at room temperature. The performance of the investigated electrodes has been considered in terms of specific capacity, cycling efficiency and cycling stability. The influence of two different binders on the performance of graphite electrode has also been considered. The results show that in electrolytic solutions based on PYR14TFSI the addition of an electrolyte additive is necessary for the formation of the solid electrolyte interphase (SEI). The reported results show also that the selection of the binder is important for the increase of the performance in graphite electrodes. Finally, the comparison of the performance of the investigated electrodes showed that silicon electrodes display higher compatibility with PYR14TFSI with respect to graphite electrodes. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Flexible butyl interconnection segments are synthetically incorporated into an electronically conductive poly(pyrene methacrylate) homopolymer and its copolymer. The insertion of butyl segment makes the pyrene polymer more flexible, and can better accommodate deformation. This new class of flexible and conductive polymers can be used as a polymer binder and adhesive to facilitate the electrochemical performance of a silicon/graphene composite anode material for lithium ion battery application. They act like a “spring” to maintain the electrode mechanical and electrical integrity. High mass loading and high areal capacity, which are critical design requirements of high energy batteries, have been achieved in the electrodes composed of the novel binders and silicon/graphene composite material. A remarkable area capacity of over 5 mAh/cm2 and volumetric capacity of over 1700 Ah/L have been reached at a high current rate of 333 mA/g.

This study highlights global innovation imbalances in future electric vehicle battery technologies, with regional policies and differing innovation capabilities driving disparities in leadership and competitiveness.