Polyetherureas as aqueous binders for Li ion Batteries

We report here the application of polyetherureas as a new class of aqueous binder for the LiFePO4 positive electrode material in lithium-ion batteries. Polyetherureas have been synthesized using a greener route (avoiding conventionally used toxic diisocyanate feedstock) by ruthenium-catalysed dehydrogenative coupling of polyethylene glycol diamine and methanol. The best binder performance was obtained when polyetherurea was used in combination with SBR (Styrene-Butadiene Rubber) exhibiting an initial coulombic efficiency of ~97% and a cell polarization of 30 mV. Remarkably, the combination of polyetherurea/SBR as a binder outperforms CMC (Carboxymethyl cellulose) which is a commonly used aqueous binder for lithium-ion batteries. Evidence of the involvement of polyetherureas on binder performance have been provided using IR spectroscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Physical, electrochemical, and mechanical properties of the polyetherurea have been studied using TGA, DSC, powder XRD, cyclic voltammetry, nanoindentation, tensile testing and 180o peel test that shed light on why this polymer acts as a good binder.