Influence of particle size and matrix in "metal" anodes for Li-ion cells

Electrodes of bismuth were prepared and tested as anodes for Lithium ion ba tteries, with different particle sizes and binders, while varying the amoun t of active material in the mixture. Bismuth has been chosen as a "model" m etal to investigate the influence of particle size on the electrochemical p erformance of the bismuth electrode since the potential window of Li-Bi all oys formation is relatively "high" (0.8-0.6 V) and prevents other component s within the electrode from being electrochemically active versus lithium i n this potential window. It appears that the use of nanosized particles wit h large amount of binder improves the electrode cyclability but that other problems are highlighted while using such electrodes. (C) 2001 Elsevier Sci ence B.V. All rights reserved.