Battery electrode slurry rheology and its impact on manufacturing

The manufacturing of battery electrodes is a critical research area driven by the increasing demand for electrification in transportation. This process involves complex stages during which advanced metrology can be used to enhance performance and minimize waste. A key metrological aspect is the rheology of the electrode slurry which can give a wealth of information about the underlying microstructure and the composite slurry materials' chemical and physical properties. Despite the importance, extensive characterization and a comprehensive understanding of the relationships between rheology, microstructure, and material properties are still lacking. This work bridges academic and industrial perspectives, evaluating current advancements in characterisation. It emphasizes the role of formulation and mixing in determining the slurry's behaviour and structural properties. The study concludes with recommendations to improve measurement techniques and interpret slurry properties, aiming to optimize the manufacturing process and enhance the performance of battery electrodes.