Binder Modeling Techniques and Applications for Lithium-Ion Batteries: A Review

This paper reviews techniques for modeling binders during electrode calendering process using the Discrete Element Method (DEM), one of the battery multiscale simulation techniques. Simulation techniques are broadly divided into two types: the first is the bonded-particle model, which implements the binder as a bond between active materials without explicit consideration of the binder, and the second is the explicit binder model, which explicitly considers the binder particles. Along with each binder model, the contact model between particles is also described. Afterwards, based on the case in the reference paper, the application of the binder model is explained, and the advantages and disadvantages of each binder model are explained based on the application. Overall, the bonded-particle model has the advantage of reducing the calculation time and reproducing the mechanical properties of the binder, while the explicit binder model has the advantage of more realistically simulating the electrode structure and electrochemical coupling. Based on this, the main limitations of the current simulation model and future research directions toward overcoming these limitations through multiscale, multiphysics simulation and data-driven approaches are presented.