Boosting Ultra-Fast Charge Battery Performance: Filling Porous nanoLi4Ti5O12 Particles with 3D Network of N-doped Carbons

Abstract

Lithium titanium oxide (Li4Ti5O12)-based cells are a promising technology for ultra-fast charge-discharge and long life-cycle batteries. However, the surface reactivity of Li4Ti5O12 and lack of electronic conductivity still remains problematic. One of the approaches toward mitigating these problems is the use of carbon-coated particles. In this study, we report the development of an economical, eco-friendly, and scalable method of making a homogenous 3D network coating of N-doped carbons. Our method makes it possible, for the first time, to fill the pores of secondary particles with carbons; we reveal that it is possible to cover each primary nanoparticle. This unique approach permits the creation of lithium-ion batteries with outstanding performances during ultra-fast charging (4C and 10C), and demonstrates an excellent ability to inhibit the degradation of cells over time at 1C and 45 °C. Furthermore, using this method, we can eliminate the addition of conductive carbons during electrode preparation, and significantly increase the energy density (by weight) of the anode.