Nanosecond pulsed laser texturing of Li-ion battery electrode current collectors: Electrochemical characterisation of cathode half-cells

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have emerged as the primary energy storage solution for numerous portable electronic devices, electric vehicles, and renewable energy systems. However, enhancing the performance and longevity of LIBs is of paramount importance to meet the increasing demand for efficient and sustainable energy storage solutions. To improve the performance of current LIBs, one of the most interesting aspects is to study and optimize the so-called inactive materials which constitute the battery. Within this context, the present work focuses on laser texturing of aluminium current collectors (CCs) to improve the electrochemical performance of lithium iron phosphate-based cathodes. Two different nanosecond laser treatments were used to increase the wettability of metallic CCs and improve adhesion between this element and the other components of the electrode. Both laser treatments enhanced adhesion between the active material and CC, exhibiting good electrochemical performance at high C-rates compared to cells with untextured CCs, as well as good rate capability. Interestingly, one of the two pattern geometries exhibited significant cycling stability, with a capacity retention of >86% after 500 cycles.