Exploitation of function groups in cellulose materials for lithium-ion batteries applications

Eco-Friendly Lithium Separators: A Frontier Exploration of Cellulose-Based Materials

Lithium-ion batteries, as an excellent energy storage solution, require continuous innovation in component design to enhance safety and performance. In this review, we delve into the field of eco-friendly lithium-ion battery separators, focusing on the potential of cellulose-based materials as sustainable alternatives to traditional polyolefin separators. Our analysis shows that cellulose materials, with their inherent degradability and renewability, can provide exceptional thermal stability, electrolyte absorption capability, and economic feasibility. We systematically classify and analyze the latest advancements in cellulose-based battery separators, highlighting the critical role of their superior hydrophilicity and mechanical strength in improving ion transport efficiency and reducing internal short circuits. The novelty of this review lies in the comprehensive evaluation of synthesis methods and cost-effectiveness of cellulose-based separators, addressing significant knowledge gaps in the existing literature. We explore production processes and their scalability in detail, and propose innovative modification strategies such as chemical functionalization and nanocomposite integration to significantly enhance separator performance metrics. Our forward-looking discussion predicts the development trajectory of cellulose-based separators, identifying key areas for future research to overcome current challenges and accelerate the commercialization of these green technologies. Looking ahead, cellulose-based separators not only have the potential to meet but also to exceed the benchmarks set by traditional materials, providing compelling solutions for the next generation of lithium-ion batteries.

Phosphate-rich cellulose beads for efficient cesium extraction from aqueous solutions: a novel approach for cellulose utilization

In this work, phosphate-rich cellulose beads (CBPs) were first used for cesium extraction from aqueous solutions. These green, abundant, cheap, and renewable CBPs demonstrated a high adsorption capacity and fast absorption rate. Besides, the CBPs also exhibited excellent stability and recycling performance, as well as good selectivity. This study presents the promising application potential of cellulose for efficient cesium extraction from aqueous media.

H2O/HF Scavenging Mechanism in Cellulose-Based Separators for Lithium-Ion Batteries with Enhanced Cycle Life

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are increasingly being integrated into the transportation industry due to their high energy density, durability, and low cost. With the growing demand for transportation and other emerging applications, there is a concurrent rise in concern over LIB material sourcing and recycling. This urges the development of LIBs with extended cycle lifespans. One mechanism of capacity fading in LIBs is the dissolution of transition metals into the electrolyte after the cathode is etched with hydrofluoric acid (HF). HF is readily generated by the hydrolysis of the LIB electrolyte salt, lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6), which makes minimizing moisture in the electrolyte a priority in manufacturing. In this study, a nonwoven, cellulose-based separator (CBS) is introduced as an alternative separator for battery technologies to scavenge residual water and HF from the electrolyte. The CBS is shown to be capable of scavenging varying amounts of water from the electrolyte based on different drying processes of the CBS, and a mechanism for this water scavenging is identified based on the materials present in the CBS. In addition, the chemical and electrochemical performance of the CBS in real battery conditions is investigated. Results suggest an effective H2O/HF scavenging capability in the CBS that allows LIB coin cells to have over 17% higher capacity retention than those with conventional separators. Furthermore, studies of the industrially manufactured, commercially relevant cylindrical and pouch cells show remarkable 761 and 103% improvements in the 60% capacity lifetime, respectively. The environmental friendliness, low cost, and easy application empowered by the cycle life improvements shown in this work make this nonwoven CBS a promising candidate for improving industry-level LIB performance.