Modeling of Galvanostatic Charge and Discharge of the Lithium/Polymer/Insertion Cell

TLDR

The model is general enough to accommodate diverse polymeric separators, lithium salts, and composite insertion cathodes, and it also considers optimization procedures for cathode utilization. The cell is modeled with concentrated solution theory, simulating lithium insertion by superposition, allowing variable physical properties, and establishing criteria to evaluate diffusion in the solid matrix and electrolyte transport. Simulation results of the cell’s charge and discharge behavior are presented.

Abstract

The galvanostatic charge and discharge of a lithium anode/solid polymer separator/insertion cathode cell is modeled using concentrated solution theory. The model is general enough to include a wide range of polymeric separator materials, lithium salts, and composite insertion cathodes. Insertion of lithium into the active cathode material is simulated using superposition, thus greatly simplifying the numerical calculations. Variable physical properties are permitted in the model. The results of a simulation of the charge/discharge behavior of the system are presented. Criteria are established to assess the importance of diffusion in the solid matrix and transport in the electrolyte. Consideration is also given to various procedures for optimization of the utilization of active cathode material.