CONDUCTIVE MATERIAL HAVING SELF-HEALING FUNCTION, MANUFACTURING METHOD THEREOF, AND USE THEREOF

Smart overview of the Invention

The patent application details a conductive material with a self-healing function, highlighting its manufacturing method and applications. This material addresses common issues in lithium-ion battery technology, particularly focusing on improving the performance of silicon-based negative electrodes. The innovation lies in combining high ionic conductivity with superior water dispersibility, which are critical for enhancing battery efficiency and longevity.

Background

Lithium-ion batteries have long been scrutinized for their stability and energy density. Silicon negative electrode materials offer high capacity but suffer from volume expansion during lithium reactions, causing structural damage and performance degradation. Conventional conductive materials like carbon black and carbon nanofibers struggle with dispersibility, leading to inconsistent battery performance. This invention aims to overcome these limitations by using single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) modified with functional polymers.

Material Composition

The conductive material comprises a carbon base, such as SWCNTs, carbon black, or carbon fibers, grafted with polymers containing hydrogen-bonding functional groups. These groups include hydroxyl, amide, and ester groups, enhancing the material's self-healing and dispersibility properties. The polymers, represented by specific chemical formulas, are integrated into the carbon material to secure uniformity and conductivity, essential for stable battery operations.

Manufacturing Process

The production method involves preparing a carbon material solution, grafting polymer monomers onto it, and polymerizing these monomers with an initiator. This process may include surface modification of the carbon material to improve bonding and performance. The methodology ensures that the conductive material maintains its integrity and functionality, crucial for its application in high-performance batteries.

Applications and Benefits

This conductive material is particularly suited for green technologies, such as electric vehicle batteries, where reliability and efficiency are paramount. It enhances the self-healing of deteriorated electrode materials and improves ionic conductivity, contributing to longer battery life and consistent performance. The innovation provides a promising solution to the challenges faced by current lithium-ion battery technologies, paving the way for more sustainable and efficient energy storage systems.