Degree
Master of Engineering Science
Program
Mechanical and Materials Engineering
Supervisor
Dr. Andy (Xueliang) Sun
Abstract
With the miniaturization of wireless electronics, the demand for ever-smaller energy storage devices has increased. Thin film batteries can meet this need by providing higher energy densities at smaller scales than conventional lithium-ion batteries. However, the fabrication of thin films batteries by vapor deposition methods typically involves expensive equipment and high temperatures, which limits their commercial application. This thesis reports the development of an inexpensive inkjet printing method of fabricating thin film electrodes for thin film lithium-ion batteries. Inks containing various electrode materials were first developed and optimized in terms of physical properties to ensure ideal jetting conditions. Then, thin film anodes comprised of silicon and titanium dioxide were fabricated with a household inkjet printer and their physical and electrochemical properties were characterized. Critical parameters involved in inkjet printing (e.g. the polymer binder used and the electrode thickness) were thoroughly studied, based on which high-capacity and stable anodes were finally achieved. Overall, this work demonstrates the efficacy and future potential of using inkjet printing for fabricating thin film battery electrodes.
Recommended Citation
Lawes, Stephen D., "Inkjet Printed Thin Film Electrodes for Lithium-Ion Batteries" (2015). Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 3252.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/3252