Aqueous processing of paper separators by filtration dewatering: towards Li-ion paper batteries

摘要

Despite the high number of research articles regarding the development of new high performance electrolytes for Li-ion batteries, relatively little work has been carried out for the investigation of green, mechanically robust, safe and commercially applicable paper separators. In this work, newly elaborated paper separators made of natural cellulose fibres are prepared by filtration dewatering. Paper separators show high porosity, wettability and mechanical robustness along with remarkable ion transport characteristics. The novel approach is conceptually validated by constant current charge/discharge cycling in a lab-scale Li-ion all-paper "pouch" cell assembled with a four-layer handsheet stacking separator in combination with a graphite-based paper-anode and a LiFePO4-based paper-cathode. This unravels the possibility of implementing the newly elaborated paper separators in safe, green and cost effective energy storage devices especially as they are obtained by rapid, low-cost and eco-friendly water-based paper-making techniques.