Advances in battery technology are, quite literally, powering developments in a number of important fields. The rapidly increasing demand for portable electronic devices such as mobile phones and laptops brings the need for long-lasting, compact and stable power supplies capable of guaranteeing reliable operation over prolonged periods. Elsewhere, the development of batteries for electric vehicles presents even greater challenges, with low weight, high power, and rapid charging all crucial to success.
The principal elements of any battery are the electrodes and the electrolyte. Pushing battery technology ahead depends on successfully manipulating the properties of these elements towards better performance. Parameters under a manufacturer’s control include the particle size and size distribution of electrode materials. Here we consider their influence on functions such as battery power and capacity, and examine their measurement using the technique of laser diffraction. Experimental data demonstrate the suitability of this analytical method for battery applications. ...