Constructing micro-rheological model for lithium-ion battery electrode slurry for coating window prediction

The composition of lithium-ion battery electrode slurry determines its rheological properties, which have a significant impact on defect control during the coating process and the final electrode microstructure. Due to the complexity of slurry composition, it is difficult to determine the quantitative relationship between the formulation and rheological properties through experimental analysis. Herein, a shear rheological model based on the microscopic properties of electrode slurry was proposed, and the predicted viscosities based on slurry compositions were consistent with experimental measurements. Furthermore, the coating performance of electrode slurries was evaluated by combining a two-dimensional phase-field model and an analytical model, and the relationship between slurry viscosity and stable coating window was analyzed. Our work provides theoretical guidance for the formulation design of electrode slurry and the optimization of the coating process, which has practical significance for improving the manufacturing of lithium-ion batteries.