Lithium titanium oxide (Li4Ti5O12)-based electrodes are very promising for long-life cycle batteries. However, the surface reactivity of Li4Ti5O12 in organic electrolytes leading to gas evolution is still a problem that may cause expansion of pouch cells. In this study, we report the use of Schiff base (1,8-diazabicyclo[5.4.0]undec-7-ene) as an additive that prevents gas evolution during cell aging by a new mechanism involving the solid electrolyte interface on the anode surface. The in situ ring opening polymerization of cyclic carbonates occurs during the first cycles to decrease gas evolution by 9.7 vol % without increasing the internal resistance of the battery.
Keywords: Schiff base; additive; lithium titanium oxide; lithium-ion batteries; solid electrolyte interphase.