Heterogeneous gradient electrode model for guiding the efficient advancement of electrode design

Given the critical role of electrode material design in optimizing lithium-ion battery performance, establishing accurate battery simulation models is essential for guiding electrode design. Advancements in gradient electrode materials progress rapidly. However, the development of corresponding simulation models has not kept pace. Hence, this work first establishes a heterogeneous mathematical model using the Normal Distribution based on statistical data while the particle size has a randomized location along the electrode thickness. Subsequently, by refining the regions and reconfiguring parameters within the existing geometric framework of the heterogeneous mathematical model(HM), the gradient heterogeneous mathematical model(GHM) is constructed. Based on these mathematical models, electrode models are proposed for further study of discharging process. The single-region heterogeneous model(SRHE) demonstrates exceptional predictive fidelity, yielding an Absolute Percentage Error below 0.5 % during 1C-rate discharge and maintaining an error under 1 % under the High-Power Pulse Characterization protocol. To enhance discharging ability, this work investigates particle size, porosity, and tortuosity, compares different parameter settings, and determines an optimal configuration. Specifically, the gradient electrode model achieves a rate capacity retention of 75 % even under 10C-rate discharge. This work may greatly reduce the development time and cost associated with electrode design, offering significant engineering implications.