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

As a cathode material for thermal batteries, NiS 2 has a high theoretical capacity but low thermal stability. Besides, the poor formability of NiS 2 powders also restricts the cathode performance of thermal batteries. In this paper, the novel NiS 2 /SiO 2 composite material was developed by high temperature vulcanization to improve the thermal stability formability of NiS 2 . The good filling and lubrication of spherical SiO 2 can improve the thermal conductivity of NiS 2 electrode. The discharge test shows that the NiS 2 /SiO 2 cathode has a stable discharge voltage at a current density of 200 mA/cm 2 , and the activation time is shortened by nearly 20% compared with the NiS 2 cathode. In addition, due to the favorable thermal insulation protection of SiO 2 , the initial decomposition temperature of NiS 2 is increased by 30 °C after the addition of SiO 2 . The incorporation of SiO 2 not only effectively improves the thermal stability and electrochemical properties of NiS 2 , but also improves the cold pressing forming performance of the NiS 2 powder. Therefore, the novel NiS 2 /SiO 2 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.