Cross-linked binder composition for lithium ion batteries and methods for producing the same

Abstract

The presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s) relates to a binder composition comprising a cross-linked polymer system. The cross-linked polymer system comprises an ionizable water soluble polymer cross-linked with a component using an esterification catalyst and/or an epoxy resin with two or more epoxide groups. The presently disclosed and/or claimed inventive concept(s) also relates generally to the compositions and methods of making electrodes, in particular but without limitation, anodes, with a binder composition comprising an ionizable water soluble polymer cross-linked with a component.

Description

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS[0001]The present application claims the benefit under 35 U.S.C. 119 (e) of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61 / 943,124, filed on Feb. 21, 2014, the entire content of which is hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND[0002]1. Field of the Invention[0003]The presently disclosed and / or claimed inventive concept(s) relates to a binder composition comprising a cross-linked polymer system comprising an ionizable water soluble polymer cross-linked with a component using an esterification catalyst and / or an epoxy resin with two or more epoxide groups. Additionally, the presently disclosed and / or claimed inventive concept(s) relates generally to compositions and methods of making electrodes, in particular but without limitation, anodes, with a binder composition comprising an ionizable water soluble polymer cross-linked with a component.[0004]2. Background of the Invention[0005]Lithium batteries are used in many products ...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

Since the film contains the electrode active material, there will likely be significant interference with the electrochemical properties of the battery if the film does not maintain sufficient contact with the current collector.

If not, large capacity fades during cycling can result from the use of new electrode active materials like, for example, silicon-containing materials with currently existing binder compositions.

Binder compositions comprising these cellulose derivatives alone may not have the mechanical properties necessary, however, to support the large volume changes that occur with some of the electrode active materials currently of interest.

Silicon has been known, however, to undergo large volume changes during charging and discharging, which can cause problems for a battery's capacity and overall performance.

This is due to the binder composition comprising the cross-linked polymer system being capable of holding the silicon-based electrode active material in the binder composition while minimizing the effects of the expansion and contraction of the silicon while charging and discharging the electrodes, which could otherwise lead to a mechanical failure of the battery.