Research on Application of Graphene in Lithium Ion Battery Cathode Materials

College of Energy, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China

Corresponding author: 32420212202945@stu.xmu.edu.cn

Abstract

Lithium-ion battery is one of the most essential energy storage tools. However, its performance in terms of rate, capacity, and recyclability still needs to be improved. Cathode material influences the performance of batteries greatly, hence, improving the performance of cathode shows especially importance. Adding effective materials to make composite cathode material is regarded as a main and significant method to improve the performance of cathode. Graphene gains lots of attraction by virtue of its high conductivity, electrochemical properties and thermal stability. Combining graphene with cathode materials will help to enhance conductivity of cathode. Therefore, graphene is selected as a promising candidate for modifying performance of cathode. This work first briefly reviews main methods for preparation of graphene. The preparation methods, including mechanical exfoliation method, chemical vapor deposition method, and reduction of graphene oxide method are introduced in detail. In addition, this work also summarizes working theory and major materials applied for cathode (LiFePO₄, LiMn₂O₄, LiCoO₂). Besides, the progresses of these materials combining with graphene as cathode materials applied in batteries are outlined. Graphene shows great importance in improving performance of cathode in lithium battery. It also provides more possibilities in inventing novel composite electrodes in the future.