Cation Conducting Binders: From Liquid to Solid-State Batteries

Binders play an important role in rechargeable batteries, as they are used for formulation of commercial electrodes and influence both the kinetics as well as cycle performance. This is especially relevant in materials' systems that are prone to contact problems such as silicon anodes or all-solid-state batteries. Introduction of binder functionalities addressing problems of specific lithium and post-lithium chemistries, such as cationic conductivity, is highly beneficial for their future performance boost. We provide an overview of current understanding of how introduction of such binder functionality by itself in model electrode materials, coupled with electronic conductivity, affects electrochemical performance. We also give suggestions for fair electrochemical data presentation, which is currently lacking in this specific battery materials' field.