Microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis of NMC955 cathode material precursor for lithium-ion batteries

Abstract

In today's world, the number of devices requiring constant electricity usage is continuously increasing, along with the demand for more advanced energy storage systems. The demand for innovation in this field has become even more pressing due to the growing need for renewable energy integration, electric vehicles, and portable electronics. This research focuses on the materials used in batteries, which are crucial to meeting these growing demands. Humanity is constantly striving to optimize systems, and energy storage is no exception, aiming to maximize efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize the use of harmful materials. This research focuses on two main aspects: reducing the use of cobalt by increasing the amount of nickel in the active material and reducing the synthesis time by utilizing a relatively unexplored synthesis route. This thesis starts with an overview of the general operating principles of batteries, synthesis methods, and types of active materials based on previous research. The second part of the thesis focuses on the experiments done during this research using microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis, exploring the influence of various variables such as pH, temperature, microwave power, and pressure. The novel synthesis approach aims to accelerate the development of high-performance materials while lowering production costs. XRD data and galvanostatic electrochemical analysis of the resultant batteries were used to estimate their performance, with the goal of enhancing battery efficiency and longevity. The results contribute to the ongoing search for more sustainable and efficient energy storage solutions, potentially influencing both future academic research and practical applications in industries like EVs, renewable energy storage, and consumer electronics.