Interactions Between Laser and Solid-State Lithium Battery Materials

All-solid-state lithium batteries (ASSLBs) are promising battery options that provide much higher energy density and safety than conventional organic electrolyte based lithium-ion batteries. However, the manufacturing of ASSLBs is challenging especially for the ceramic electrolyte systems that are intrinsically brittle, require high sintering temperature for densification and careful surface treatment to facilitate charge transfer. To address these challenges, we are developing laser-based manufacturing of ASSLBs, the technology of which has many unique advantages such as extremely fast heating/cooling rate, versatile beam shaping capability, a variety of laser wavelength and pulse duration options, and computer designed scan strategies. In this work, we will discuss the interactions between lasers (fiber lasers, CO₂ lasers) and solid-state lithium battery materials (solid state electrolytes, cathode, binders, carbon black, etc.). Experimental observations of laser induced solid state reactions, densification, melting, ablation, cracking, and decomposition will be presented. The findings will guide the optimization of laser processing conditions for the fabrication of high-quality solid-state electrolyte and electrodes.<br/> <br/>This work was performed under the auspices of the US Department of Energy by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344.