Enhancing formability of NiS₂ cathode by SiO₂ doping for high-performance thermal batteries

Abstract

As a cathode material for thermal batteries, NiS₂ has a high theoretical capacity but low thermal stability. Besides, the poor formability of NiS₂ powders also restricts the cathode performance of thermal batteries. In this paper, the novel NiS₂/SiO₂ composite material was developed by high temperature vulcanization to improve the thermal stability formability of NiS₂. The good filling and lubrication of spherical SiO₂ can improve the thermal conductivity of NiS₂ electrode. The discharge test shows that the NiS₂/SiO₂ cathode has a stable discharge voltage at a current density of 200 mA/cm², and the activation time is shortened by nearly 20% compared with the NiS₂ cathode. In addition, due to the favorable thermal insulation protection of SiO₂, the initial decomposition temperature of NiS₂ is increased by 30 °C after the addition of SiO₂. The incorporation of SiO₂ not only effectively improves the thermal stability and electrochemical properties of NiS₂, but also improves the cold pressing forming performance of the NiS₂ powder. Therefore, the novel NiS₂/SiO₂ composite material is more suitable for thermal batteries with high stability and fast response, which is of great significance for improving the maneuverability and quality reliability of weapons and equipment.

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