Topic: Thick Electrode Design in Li-ion Batteries

Thick electrodes, including both cathodes and anodes, are pivotal for advancing next-generation high-energy-density rechargeable batteries. Despite their potential, thick electrodes face several key challenges, including extended ion and electron transport pathways, mechanical instability, uneven utilization of active materials, and elevated heat generation. To address these issues, researchers have proposed a variety of strategies, such as high-tortuosity electrode designs, patterned architectures, ion-regulating polymeric binders, and solvent-free dry processing techniques.

This Special Issue provides a timely platform to present cutting-edge research and perspectives on the rational design, mechanistic understanding, and practical implementation of thick electrodes for high-energy-density rechargeable batteries. By exploring viable solutions to challenges such as poor rate capability, mechanical degradation, uneven material utilization, and heat generation, the issue aims to accelerate the development of scalable, economically viable, and long-lasting battery technologies.

We invite contributions on, but not limited to, the following topics:

● Thick electrodes for high-energy-density rechargeable batteries;

● Design and development of novel binders compatible with wet and/or dry processing methods;

● Ion-/electron-regulating strategies for thick electrodes;

● Structural engineering and architectural design of thick electrodes;

● Advanced fabrication techniques, including dry electrode processes, 3D printing, stencil printing, electrode patterning, and engineered current collectors;

● Strategies to enhance electrode stability, such as conductive additives, electrolyte engineering, and surface modifications;

● In situ/operando characterization and theoretical modeling for mechanistic insights

● Scale-up studies, techno-economic analysis, and cycle life assessments.

Thick electrodes, high-energy-density batteries, polymeric binder, dry electrode, structural electrode engineering, In situ characterization