A chloric polycation binder enables rapid ionic transport in thick electrodes of high-energy aluminum-ion batteries

Abstract

The design of binder materials is vital for achieving an active impact on charge or mass transport in battery electrodes. Nevertheless, design rules are still lacking for aluminum-ion batteries. For high-loading graphite cathodes, we report the application of chloric polycation binders, which facilitate ionic transport through the in situ polycation-AlCl₄⁻ networks. We find that conjugated unit doping is an effective method to enhance adhesive properties. These attributes endow cells with improved electrochemical properties in terms of area-specific capacity, energy efficiency, rate capability, and long-term cycling stability.