First, let's look at the structure of a lithium battery's positive electrode. It primarily consists of LiCoO2 (lithium cobalt oxide), a conductive agent, a binder (PVDF), and a current collector (aluminum foil). LiCoO2 is the primary component of the positive electrode, responsible for providing electrical energy; the conductive agent and binder enhance conductivity and provide adhesion; and the current collector collects and transmits current.
Next, let's look at the negative electrode, which consists of graphite, a conductive agent, a thickener (CMC), a binder (SBR), and a current collector (copper foil). Similar to the positive electrode, graphite is the primary component of the negative electrode, responsible for storing electrical energy; the other components each play a unique role, collectively ensuring efficient battery operation.
With this structure, during discharge, the LiCoO2 in the positive electrode releases lithium ions. These ions travel through the electrolyte to the negative electrode, where they react with the graphite, releasing electrical energy. During charging, the reverse reaction occurs: lithium ions are released from the graphite and return to the positive electrode through the electrolyte, completing the charging process.
