Beneficial Effects of Three-Dimensional Structured Electrodes for the Fast Charging of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are the dominating electrochemical energy storage technology for battery electric vehicles. However, additional optimization is needed to meet the requirements of the automotive industry regarding energy density, cost, safety, and fast charging performance. In conventional electrode designs, there is a trade-off between energy density and rate capability. Recently, three-dimensional (3D) structuring techniques, such as laser perforation, were proposed to optimize both properties at the same time and remarkable improvements in fast-charging performance have been demonstrated. In this work, we investigate the effect of structuring techniques on the thermal properties and electrochemical performance of the battery using microstructure-resolved simulations. Particular attention will be paid to the heat evolution and lithium plating during fast charging of the batteries. According to our results, 3D structuring is able to reduce the overall cell resistance by improving the electrolyte transport. This has a positive impact on the fast charging capability of the cell and, moreover, reduces the danger of lithium plating.