Autonomous restoration of electrical interfaces

Restoration of electrical interfaces has potential to increase the reliability and safety of high performance batteries. In Li-ion batteries, continued cycling of silicon anodes results in cracking or pulverization of the particles, and ultimately destruction of the conductive network. Here, we consider an approach to increase cycle lifetimes and reliability through restoration of anode conductance via the use of microencapsulated components that form a conductive network when released. In this study, robust microcapsules were prepared with high carbon black loading (up to 20 w/v %) present in liquid core. Increased hydrophobicity of carbon black was achieved through the functionalization of oxidized carbon black with octadecylamine. Upon crushing, functionalized carbon black (FCB) filled microcapsules demonstrated improved particle release compared to unfunctionalized carbon black. The potential for conductance restoration of Si electrodes was first evaluated by crushing FCB microcapsules on electrode line cracks introduced by a fiber removal method, with a maximum recovery of 100% of original conductance. Performance is compared with microencapsulated graphene and carbon nanotubes. In situ recovery of electrode materials is currently in progress. ICSHM2013 _________________________________________________________________________________ 466