TW201616708A - Graphite particles for lithium ion secondary battery negative electrode materials, lithium ion secondary battery negative electrode and lithium ion secondary battery - Google Patents

Abstract

Provided are: a negative electrode material which has at least one of excellent initial charge/discharge efficiency, excellent high-rate charge characteristics, excellent high-rate discharge characteristics and excellent long-term cycle characteristics; a negative electrode which uses this negative electrode material; and a lithium secondary battery. Graphite particles for lithium ion secondary battery negative electrode materials, which are a mixture of composite graphite particles (C1) that comprise carbonaceous material (B1) within spheroidized graphite particles (A) having spherical or generally spherical shapes and/or on at least a part of the surfaces of the spheroidized graphite particles (A) and composite graphite particles (C2) that have a graphite material (B2) within the spheroidized graphite particles (A) having spherical or generally spherical shapes and/or on at least a part of the surfaces of the spheroidized graphite particles (A).

Description

Graphite particles for lithium ion secondary battery anode material, lithium ion secondary battery anode and lithium ion secondary battery

The present invention relates to a lithium ion secondary battery negative electrode material, a lithium ion secondary battery negative electrode including the negative electrode material, and a lithium ion secondary battery using the negative electrode.

In recent years, with the miniaturization and high performance of electronic devices, the demand for increasing the energy density of batteries has been increasing. In particular, lithium ion secondary batteries are expected to have a higher voltage density than other secondary batteries, and thus have achieved high energy density. A lithium ion secondary battery has a negative electrode, a positive electrode, and an electrolyte solution (non-aqueous electrolyte) as main constituent elements. The negative electrode usually contains a negative electrode material (working substance for the anode) which is bonded to a current collector containing a copper foil by a bonding agent. Usually, the anode material uses a carbon material. As such a carbon material, graphite which is excellent in charge-discharge characteristics and exhibits high discharge capacity and potential flatness is generally used. Lithium ion secondary batteries mounted on recent portable electronic devices require high fast energy density and fast discharge performance, and require initial discharge capacity to be degraded even after repeated charge and discharge. characteristic).

Patent Document 1 discloses a graphitized material of a mesophase carbon small sphere including a Brooks-Taylor type in which a basal plane of graphite is arranged in a layer in a direction perpendicular to a diameter direction. Single crystal. Patent Document 2 proposed by the applicant discloses a composite graphite particle in which a graphite granulated product is filled and/or coated with a carbonaceous layer having crystallinity lower than that of the graphite granulated material and containing carbonaceous fine particles. Patent Document 3 discloses a composite graphite material in which a spheroidal graphite granule is coated with a graphite coating material and has a graphite surface layer having a low crystallinity on the outer surface. Patent Document 4 discloses a graphite composite powder and a graphite composite mixed powder of artificial graphite powder containing a part of constituent materials of the graphite composite powder.

Patent Document 5 describes an invention in which a mixture of three graphite particles A having different hardness and shape, graphite particles B, and graphite particles C is used for a negative electrode, and the permeation rate of the electrolytic solution is improved. Graphite particles A used an artificial graphite block containing coke and binder pitch, and used graphite powder having a lower outer surface and a lower crystallinity. Patent Document 6 describes a mixture of graphite particles (A) and graphite particles (B) having different physical properties using a negative electrode material. In the examples, graphite particles (A) obtained by calcining at 1000 ° C were further calcined at 3000 ° C to obtain graphite particles (B). At this time, since the carbonaceous material in the graphite particles (B) calcined at a higher temperature has a smaller carbonization yield, it is considered that the amount of the graphitized carbonaceous material in the graphite particles (B) is small. A carbonaceous material in the graphite particles (A).

When a mixture of graphite particles having different physical properties is used for the negative electrode, it is considered that the battery characteristics of the lithium secondary battery are restricted by the physical properties of the graphite particles constituting the mixture. Therefore, in order to obtain a mixture excellent in characteristics of the lithium secondary battery, it is desired to study more suitably. A combination of graphite particles.

However, the previous graphite-based negative electrode material cannot obtain sufficient performance for the higher requirements of energy density, rapid chargeability, rapid discharge property, and cycle characteristics in recent years. In particular, in order to achieve a high energy density, it is necessary to increase the density of the active material layer while increasing the discharge capacity per unit mass of the graphite-based negative electrode material, and to set the discharge capacity per unit volume to a high level. In the previous negative electrode material, other battery characteristics may occur, such as peeling of the active material layer from the negative electrode, cracking or extension of the copper foil as a current collecting material, poor permeability or retention of the electrolyte, and decomposition reaction of the electrolyte. The battery expansion or the like caused causes various problems such as rapid battery characteristics such as rapid chargeability, rapid discharge performance, and cycle characteristics.

In the negative electrode material using the graphitized material of the mesophase carbon small spheres described in Patent Document 1, since the graphitized material is spherical, the alignment of the base surface of the graphite can be suppressed to some extent even if the density is increased. However, since the graphite compound is dense and hard, high pressure is required for high density, and problems such as deformation, elongation, and fracture of the copper foil of the current collector are caused. In addition, the contact area with the electrolytic solution is small. Therefore, the fast chargeability is extremely low. The decrease in chargeability causes electrolysis of lithium on the surface of the negative electrode during charging to cause a decrease in cycle characteristics.

In the negative electrode material using the composite graphite particles described in Patent Document 2, when the density of the active material layer is increased, a part of the carbonaceous material film or the spherical granulated graphite substrate is broken, and the electrolyte solution is decomposed during the charge and discharge. The reaction is not sufficient for long-term cycle characteristics.

The negative electrode material using the composite graphite material described in Patent Document 3 is excellent in initial charge and discharge efficiency, but has insufficient fast chargeability. The long-term cycle characteristics when the density of the active material layer is increased are superior to those of other patent documents, but must be further improved.

In the negative electrode material using the graphite composite mixed powder described in Patent Document 4, the discharge capacity per unit mass is insufficient. In addition, in addition to the initial charge and discharge efficiency is low, the rapid chargeability is also insufficient. Prior art literature

Patent Document 1: Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2000-323127 (Patent Document 2): Japanese Patent Laid-Open Publication No. Hei. No. Hei. No. Hei. Japanese Laid-Open Patent Publication No. 2007-324067, Patent Document 6: Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2008-27664

[Problems to be solved by the invention]

It is an object of the present invention to solve the problems of the prior negative electrode materials. That is, an object of the present invention is to provide a negative electrode material having at least one of the following characteristics, excellent initial charge and discharge efficiency, fast chargeability, rapid discharge property, and long-term cycle characteristics. 1) high crystallinity and high discharge capacity per unit mass; 2) high active material density at low pressing pressure; 3) inhibition of graphite collapse, destruction, alignment, despite high density The shape of the graphite particles which impair the permeability or retention of the electrolyte; 4) The lithium ion on the surface of the graphite is excellent in acceptability and does not have a reactive surface, and the decomposition reaction of the electrolytic solution can be suppressed even if the charge and discharge are reversely charged. Further, an object of the present invention is to provide a lithium ion secondary battery negative electrode using the negative electrode material and a lithium ion secondary battery having the negative electrode. [Means for solving the problem]

[1] A graphite particle for a negative electrode material for a lithium ion secondary battery, which is a mixture of composite graphite particles (C1) and composite graphite particles (C2), which are put in shape The spherical or substantially spherical spheroidized graphite particles (A) have a carbonaceous material (B1) inside the particles and at least a part of the particle surface, and the composite graphite particles (C2) are in the spheroidized graphite particles ( The inside of the particle of A) and at least a part of the surface of the particle have a graphite material (B2), and the mixture satisfies the following (1) to (5): (1) The interplanar spacing of the carbon mesh layer (d ₀₀₂₎ ) is 0.3360 nm or less, (2) the knocking degree is 1.0 g/cm ³ or more, (3) the average particle diameter is 5 μm to 25 μm, and (4) the average aspect ratio is 1.2 or more, less than 4.0, and (5) The pore volume of the pore diameter of 0.5 μm or less by the mercury pore meter is 0.08 ml/g or less. [2] The graphite particles for a negative electrode material for a lithium ion secondary battery according to [1], wherein the spheroidized graphite particles (A) in the composite graphite particles (C1) are 100 parts by mass or more The content of the carbonaceous material (B1) is 0.1 parts by mass to 10 parts by mass, and the carbonaceous material (B2) is 100 parts by mass based on 100 parts by mass of the spheroidized graphite particles (A) in the composite graphite particles (C2). The content is 5 parts by mass to 30 parts by mass. [3] The graphite particles for a negative electrode material for a lithium ion secondary battery according to [1], wherein a ratio of the composite graphite particles (C1) to the composite graphite particles (C2) is a mass ratio 1:99~90:10. [4] A lithium ion secondary battery negative electrode comprising the graphite particles for a lithium ion secondary battery negative electrode material according to any one of the above [1] to [3]. [5] A lithium ion secondary battery comprising the lithium ion secondary battery negative electrode according to [4]. [Effects of the Invention]

In the invention of the present application, it is possible to provide a negative electrode material having at least one of the following characteristics, excellent initial charge and discharge efficiency, fast chargeability, rapid discharge property, and long-term cycle characteristics. 1) high crystallinity and high discharge capacity per unit mass; 2) high active material density at low pressing pressure; 3) inhibition of graphite collapse, destruction, alignment, despite high density The shape of the graphite particles which impair the permeability or retention of the electrolytic solution; 4) The lithium ion on the surface of the graphite is excellent in acceptability and does not have a reactive surface, and the decomposition reaction of the electrolytic solution can be suppressed even if the charge and discharge are reversely charged.

[Spheroidized graphite particles (A)] The flaky graphite particles constituting the spheroidized graphite particles (A) used in the present invention are artificial graphite or natural graphite such as a scaly shape, a plate shape, or a spindle shape. In particular, natural graphite having high crystallinity is preferred, and the average lattice spacing (d ₀₀₂ ) is preferably less than 0.3360 nm, particularly 0.3358 nm or less. By setting the average lattice spacing (d ₀₀₂ ) to less than 0.3360 nm, the discharge capacity per unit mass can be increased. The flaky graphite particles are shaped into a spherical shape or a substantially spherical shape. The term "substantially spherical" refers to an elliptical shape, a block shape, or the like, and refers to a state in which the surface has no large depressions or acute horn-like projections. The spheroidized graphite particles (A) may be a plurality of scaly graphite particles collected, laminated, granulated, or bonded, or may be bent, bent, folded, or chamfered by a single flaky graphite particle. In particular, a concentric or a tall cabbage-like structure in which a planar portion (base surface) of flaky graphite is disposed on the surface of the spheroidized graphite particles is preferable. The average particle diameter (volume-converted average particle diameter) of the spheroidized graphite particles (A) is preferably from 5 μm to 25 μm, particularly preferably from 10 μm to 20 μm. When the average particle diameter is 5 μm or more, the density of the active material layer can be increased, and the discharge capacity per unit volume can be improved. When the average particle diameter is 25 μm or less, the rapid chargeability or cycle characteristics are improved. Here, the volume-converted average particle diameter means a particle diameter of 50% by volume percentage measured by a laser diffraction type particle size distribution meter.

The average aspect ratio of the spheroidized graphite particles (A) is preferably 1.2 or more and less than 4.0. In the case of a spherical shape close to less than 1.2, there is a case where the deformation of the graphite particles is increased when the active material layer is pressed, and the graphite particles are cracked. In addition, when the average aspect ratio is 4.0 or more, the diffusibility of lithium ions may be lowered, and the rapid discharge property or the cycle characteristics may be lowered.

The average aspect ratio refers to the ratio of the long axis length of one particle to the short axis length. Here, the major axis length refers to the longest diameter of the particles to be measured, and the minor axis length refers to a short diameter orthogonal to the long axis of the particles to be measured. Further, the average aspect ratio is a simple average value of the aspect ratio of each particle measured by observing 100 particles by a scanning electron microscope. Here, the magnification at the time of observation by a scanning electron microscope is a magnification which can confirm the shape of the particle to be measured.

The method for producing the spheroidized graphite particles (A) is not particularly limited. For example, it can be produced by applying a mechanical external force to flat or scaly natural graphite. Specifically, it is possible to provide a high shear force, or to bend it to be spheroidized by applying a turning operation, or to spheroidize in a concentric shape. The granules may also be formulated to promote granulation before and after the spheroidization treatment. Examples of the apparatus that can be spheroidized include "counting jet mill", "ACM pulverizer" (manufactured by Hosokawa Micron Co., Ltd.), and "Current Jet" ( Nissin Engineering (manufactured by Nissin Engineering), etc., "SARARA" (manufactured by Kawasaki Heavy Industries Co., Ltd.), "Granurex" (Freund Industrial) ) (manufacturing), "Pneugra-machine" (made by Seishin Enterprise (share)), "Agglomaster" (made by Hosokawa Micron) ), such as a granulator, a kneading machine, a two-roller, etc., a "mechanical microsystem" (manufactured by Nara Machinery Co., Ltd.), an extruder, a ball mill, a planetary mill, and a "mechanical fusion system" (Hosokawa Krone (manufactured by Krone), "NOBILTA" (manufactured by Hosokawa Micron), "hybridization" (manufactured by Nara Machinery Co., Ltd.), rotary ball mill Compression shear machining device or the like.

It is also possible to carry out a press treatment after the spheroidization treatment, and to densify the inside of the particles of the spheroidized graphite particles. Further, after the spheroidizing treatment, the surface of the spheroidized graphite particles (A) may be oxidized by heat treatment in an oxidizing atmosphere, immersion in an acidic liquid, fluorination treatment or the like. Crystallize or provide a functional group.

[Composite Graphite Particles (C1)] The composite graphite particles (C1) used in the present invention have a carbonaceous material (B1) in at least a part of the particles of the spheroidized graphite particles (A) and at the surface of the particles. By the adhesion of the carbonaceous material (B1), the collapse of the spheroidized graphite particles (A) can be prevented, and the lithium ion acceptability can be improved, and excellent rapid chargeability can be exhibited. Examples of the carbonaceous material (B1) to be attached to the spheroidized graphite particles (A) include resins such as coal-based or petroleum-based heavy oils, tars, pitches, and phenol resins, which are finally at 500 ° C or higher. A carbide obtained by heat treatment at a temperature of less than 1500 °C. The amount of adhesion of the carbonaceous material (B1) to the spheroidized graphite particles (A) is preferably 0.1 parts by mass to 10 parts by mass, more preferably 0.5 parts by mass to 8 parts by mass, most preferably 0.5% by mass. Parts to 5 parts by mass. When the adhesion amount of the carbonaceous material (B1) is less than 0.1 part by mass, the spheroidized graphite particles (A) are easily broken, and the initial charge and discharge efficiency or rapid discharge property is lowered. In addition, there is a case where the long-term cycle characteristics are lowered. When the amount of adhesion of the carbonaceous material (B1) exceeds 10 parts by mass, the composite graphite particles (C1) are hardened, and a high pressure is required when the active material layer is pressed. Therefore, in addition to the breakage or extension of the copper foil as the current collector, the irreversible capacity of the carbonaceous material (B1) becomes large, resulting in a decrease in initial charge and discharge efficiency.

[Composite Graphite Particles (C2)] The composite graphite particles (C2) used in the present invention have a graphite material (B2) in at least a part of the particles of the spheroidized graphite particles (A) and/or at the surface of the particles. By the adhesion of the graphite material (B2), the collapse of the spheroidized graphite particles (A) can be prevented, and the active material layer can be densified by a low pressing pressure, and excellent initial charge and discharge can be exhibited. Efficiency or rapid discharge. The graphite material (B2) to be attached to the spheroidized graphite particles (A) may be, for example, a resin such as coal-based or petroleum-based heavy oil, tar, pitch, or phenol resin. A graphitized product obtained by heat treatment at a temperature of 1500 ° C or higher and less than 3300 ° C. The amount of the graphite material (B2) adhered is preferably from 5 parts by mass to 30 parts by mass, particularly preferably from 10 parts by mass to 25 parts by mass, per 100 parts by mass of the spheroidized graphite particles (A). When the adhesion amount of the graphite material (B2) is less than 5 parts by mass, the spheroidized graphite particles (A) are easily broken, and the initial charge and discharge efficiency or rapid discharge property is lowered. In addition, there is a case where the long-term cycle characteristics are lowered. Further, when the adhesion amount of the graphite material (B2) exceeds 30 parts by mass, the composite graphite particles (C2) are hardened, and a high pressure is required when the active material layer is pressed, and a copper foil which is a current collector is broken or extended. . Further, the composite graphite particles (C2) are easily welded to each other during heat treatment, and a fracture surface is generated in the graphite material (B2), resulting in a decrease in initial charge and discharge efficiency. In addition, [the adhesion amount of the carbonaceous material B1 with respect to 100 parts by mass of A in the composite graphite particles C1 is more than the adhesion amount of the graphite material B2 with respect to 100 parts by mass of A in the composite graphite particles C2]. The reason for this is that the collapse or breakage of the composite graphite particles C1 and the composite graphite particles C2 having a high active material density can be minimized, and in particular, the rapid chargeability of the composite graphite particles C1 and the composite graphite particles can be achieved. C2 has excellent initial charge and discharge efficiency and rapid discharge. In other words, since the carbonaceous material (B1) is harder than the graphite material (B2) and has poor initial efficiency, it is preferable to reduce the amount of adhesion to the spheroidized graphite particles (A) and to cover them thinly. The advantage of the rapid chargeability of the composite graphite particles (C1) is derived from the interfacial reaction between the film-coated carbonaceous material (B1) and the electrolyte. However, since the composite graphite particles (C1) alone are broken or broken at a high active material density, the composite graphite particles (C2) reinforced by the graphite material (B2) having a relatively large amount of adhesion are used in combination, and the solution is solved. Describe the problem.

The method of adhering the carbonaceous material (B1) or the graphite material (B2) to at least a part of the particles of the spheroidized graphite particles (A) and/or the surface of the particles can be produced by the following method: And a method of solid phase method in which a precursor of a carbonaceous material (B1) or a graphite material (B2), such as a petroleum-based or coal-based heavy oil, or a tar, is attached or coated on the spheroidized graphite particles (A). After heat treatment, a resin such as pitch or phenol resin is used.

Specific examples of the liquid phase method include coal tar, tar light oil, tar medium oil, tar heavy oil, naphthalene oil, eucalyptus oil, coal tar pitch, asphalt oil, mesophase pitch, and oxygen crosslinked petroleum pitch. Petroleum oils such as naphtha decomposition fractions and ethylene base oils or coal-based tar pitches, thermoplastic resins such as polyvinyl alcohol and polyacrylic acid, thermosetting resins such as phenol resins and furan resins, and sugars and celluloses (hereinafter also noted) After the molten material such as the carbonaceous material precursor or the solution is dispersed, mixed, and impregnated into the spheroidized graphite particles (A), light components such as a solvent are removed as necessary, and finally, in a non-oxidizing or oxidizing environment. Then, heat treatment is performed at a temperature of 500 ° C or more and less than 1500 ° C to produce composite graphite particles (C1) to which the carbonaceous material (B1) adheres. Similarly, the composite graphite particles (C2) to which the graphite material (B2) adheres can be produced by heat treatment at a temperature of 1500 ° C or higher and less than 3300 ° C in a non-oxidizing atmosphere. Further, when the carbonaceous material precursor or the solution is brought into contact with the spheroidized graphite particles (A), stirring, heating, and pressure reduction can be performed. Carbonaceous material precursors can be used in a variety of different types. In addition, the carbonaceous material precursor may also be an oxidant or a crosslinking agent.

Specific examples of the solid phase method include a method of mixing the powder of the carbonaceous material precursor exemplified in the description of the liquid phase method with the spheroidized graphite particles (A); or providing the mixture while being mixed A mechanochemical treatment of mechanical energy such as compression, shearing, collision, friction, etc., and a powder of a carbonaceous material precursor is pressed against the surface of the spheroidized graphite particles (A). The carbonaceous material precursor is melted or softened by mechanochemical treatment, and adhered by rubbing on the spheroidized graphite particles (A). Examples of the apparatus that can be subjected to mechanochemical treatment include the various compression shear processing apparatuses described above. The method of heat-treating the spheroidized graphite particles (A) to which the powder of the carbonaceous material precursor adheres is finally performed in a non-oxidizing or oxidizing atmosphere at a temperature of 500 ° C or more and less than 1500 ° C. The composite graphite particles (C1) to which the carbonaceous material (B1) is attached are produced. Similarly, the composite graphite particles (C2) to which the graphite material (B2) adheres can be produced by heat treatment at a temperature of 1500 ° C or higher and less than 3300 ° C in a non-oxidizing atmosphere.

In addition, the heat treatment can be carried out in stages. The composite graphite particles (C1) and the composite graphite particles (C2) of the present invention preferably have substantially no fracture surface derived from pulverization, but as a method for preventing fusion during heat treatment, it is preferred to use a rotary kiln as part of the heat treatment step. the way. The carbonaceous material precursor is transferred from the molten state to the carbonized temperature region, and the spheroidized graphite particles (A) are stirred, whereby composite graphite particles (C1) and composite graphite particles (C2) having a smooth surface and no fusion are obtained. In addition, the fact that the crushed surface derived from the pulverization does not substantially mean that the composite graphite particles (C1) and the composite graphite particles (C2) after the final heat treatment are in a powder form are not integrally welded. Some of the carbonaceous material (B1) and the graphite material (B2) adhering to the composite graphite particles (C1) and the composite graphite particles (C2) were peeled off, and those observed as individual powders were not intended. The so-called powder form is not excluded to the case where a small amount of welder is included. In the heat treatment, the welder is pulverized to form a pellet (corresponding to Patent Document 4), and the crushed surface derived from the pulverization serves as a starting point of the decomposition reaction of the electrolytic solution, which causes a decrease in initial charge and discharge efficiency.

Further, a conductive material such as carbon fiber or carbon black, or fine particles of carbonaceous or graphite, flat artificial graphite or natural graphite may be used together with the carbonaceous material precursor. Further, when the composite graphite particles (C2) to which the graphite material (B2) is attached are produced, a metal such as Fe, Co, Ni, Al, or Ti having a function of increasing the degree of graphitization can be used together with the carbonaceous material precursor, Si Semi-metals such as B, and the compounds described.

In the present invention, the composite graphite particles (C1) to which the carbonaceous material (B1) is attached or the composite graphite particles (C2) to which the graphite material (B2) is attached may be in the carbonaceous material (B1) or the graphite material (B2). Internal or surface, with conductive materials such as carbon fiber or carbon black or other carbonaceous materials or graphite materials, fine artificial graphite or natural graphite. Further, a metal oxide such as cerium oxide, alumina or titania may be attached or embedded (for example, in the form of fine particles). Further, a metal or a metal compound which can be an active material such as Si, Sn, Co, Ni, SiO, SnO or lithium titanate may be attached or embedded.

[Graphite particles for a secondary battery negative electrode material] The graphite particles for a secondary battery negative electrode material of the present invention (hereinafter sometimes referred to as mixed graphite particles) are a mixture of the composite graphite particles (C1) and composite graphite particles (C2). . The mixture preferably has a peak intensity (I ₁₃₆₀ ) around 1360 cm ^-1 of the Raman spectrum and a peak intensity (I ₁₅₈₀ ) intensity ratio (I ₁₅₈₀ ) around 1580 cm ^-1 (I ₁₃₆₀ /I ₁₅₈₀ ). There are maximum points in the two ranges of 0.01 to 0.08 and 0.12 to 0.30. The composite graphite particles (C1) exhibit a maximum peak in the range of the intensity ratio (I ₁₃₆₀ /I ₁₅₈₀ ) of 0.12 to 0.30, and the composite graphite particles (C2) exhibit in the range of the intensity ratio (I ₁₃₆₀ /I ₁₅₈₀ ) of 0.01 to 0.08. A great peak. Further, in order to determine the intensity ratio (I ₁₃₆₀ / I ₁₅₈₀₎ distribution, as long as any point of the mixture 200 measured intensity ratio (I ₁₃₆₀ / I _1580), 0.004 points to the interval count. As a blending ratio showing the maximum peak of the two mountains, the mass ratio of the composite graphite particles (C1): composite graphite particles (C2) is approximately 20 to 80:80 to 20. Particularly good is 30 to 70:70 to 30. When the mass ratio is in the range of 20 to 80:80 to 20, the active material layer can be made denser with a low pressing pressure, and the balance between rapid chargeability and rapid discharge property can be improved, and excellent cycle characteristics can be obtained.

The surface spacing (d ₀₀₂ ) of the carbon mesh surface layer in the mixed graphite particles of the present invention is 0.3360 nm or less. The surface interval is particularly preferably 0.3358 nm or less. The discharge capacity when the mixed graphite particles are used as the negative electrode material by the crystallinity is changed by the production conditions or evaluation conditions of the negative electrode or the evaluation battery, but is preferably about 355 mAh/g or more, preferably 360 mAh/g or more.

The mixed graphite particles of the present invention have a 300-step knocking degree of 1.00 g/cm ³ or more. The knocking degree is particularly preferably 1.10 g/cm ³ or more. The knocking degree is an index of the sphericity or surface smoothness of the graphite particles, and since the mixed graphite particles do not substantially have a fracture surface derived from pulverization, the knocking degree becomes high. The higher the knocking degree, the higher the density before pressing the active material layer, and the smaller the deformation of the graphite particles due to the pressing, and the deformation or breakage of the graphite particles at the time of high density can be suppressed. Here, the knock tightness is an increased bulk density obtained by mechanically tightening a container to which a powder sample is added.

The mixed graphite particles of the present invention have an average particle diameter of 5 μm to 25 μm. The average particle size is particularly preferably from 10 m to 20 μm. When the average particle diameter is 5 μm or more, the density of the active material layer can be increased, and the discharge capacity per unit volume can be improved. Further, when the average particle diameter is 25 μm or less, the rapid chargeability or cycle characteristics are improved.

The mixed graphite particles of the present invention have an average aspect ratio of 1.2 or more and less than 4.0. When the average aspect ratio is a spherical shape close to less than 1.2, there is a case where the deformation of the graphite particles becomes large when the active material layer is pressed, cracks are generated on the graphite particles, or rebound due to pressing. The resulting expansion becomes larger. Further, when the average aspect ratio is 4.0 or more, the diffusibility of lithium ions is lowered, and the rapid discharge property or cycle characteristics are lowered.

In the mixed graphite particles of the present invention, the pore volume of the pore diameter of 0.5 μm or less by the mercury pore meter is 0.08 ml/g or less. The pore volume is particularly preferably 0.05 ml/g or less. When the pore volume is 0.08 ml/g or less, the long-term cycle characteristics become good. When the pore volume exceeds 0.08 ml/g, the cycle characteristics are lowered, and the reason is not clear. However, when the pore volume is too large, it is considered that the decomposition reaction of the electrolytic solution is performed inside the graphite particles or the spheroidization of the graphite particles is formed. The spherical structure of the graphitized particles (A) is repeated and is easily broken during charge and discharge.

In addition, the reason why the pore diameter of 0.5 μm or less is determined by the pore volume of the mercury pore meter is that the voids between the particles when the graphite particles are filled in the measurement tank are removed in order to measure the pore volume. When the pore diameter of the measurement target is 0.5 μm or less, voids between the particles are not contained, and only the pores of the graphite particles can be detected.

In the method of adjusting the pore volume, when the spheroidized graphite particles (A) are produced, the operating conditions (for example, the rotation time and the pressure application conditions at the same time as the spheroidization) of the spheroidizing device are exemplified. a method of controlling the density inside the particles; a method of subjecting the produced spheroidized graphite particles (A) to a compression treatment; and controlling a carbonaceous material as a coating material of the composite graphite particles (C1) and the composite graphite particles (C2) ( B1), a method in which the graphite material (B2) is impregnated inside the spheroidized graphite particles (A) (for example, reducing the viscosity of the precursor of the carbonaceous material (B1) or the graphite material (B2), impregnating the spheroidized graphite The inside of the particle (A), followed by heating or decompression to promote impregnation, etc.).

[Negative Electrode Material for Lithium Ion Secondary Battery] The negative electrode material for a lithium ion secondary battery of the present invention (hereinafter also abbreviated as a negative electrode material) is used alone or as a main material in which the mixed graphite particles are used as an active material. As a sub-material, various known conductive materials, carbon particles, graphite particles, metal particles or the composite particles may be mixed as long as the effects of the present invention are not impaired, but it is preferable that the mixing ratio of the sub-materials is by mass ratio. It is controlled below 30%.

Examples of the auxiliary material include a carbonaceous or graphite fiber, a carbon black, a scaly artificial graphite, or a conductive material such as natural graphite, a carbonaceous material such as soft carbon or hard carbon, and a graphitic material of a spherical mesophase carbon small sphere. Or a graphitized product of a pulverized material of mesocarbon microspheres, a graphitized material of coke or a bulk intermediate phase, a massive graphitized material obtained by pulverizing, oxidizing, carbonizing, and graphitizing bulk mesophase pitch, and comprising a plurality of flat shapes Graphite particles of graphite particles having fine pores, composite graphite, and spheroidized natural graphite. Further, the auxiliary material may be a mixture with a carbon material, an organic material, an inorganic material, a metal material, a coating, or a composite. It may be attached or coated with an organic compound such as a surfactant or a resin, or may be attached or embedded with fine particles of a metal oxide such as cerium oxide, aluminum oxide or titanium dioxide, or may be attached, buried, composite, or coated. A metal or a metal compound such as tin, cobalt, nickel, copper, cerium oxide, tin oxide or lithium titanate.

[Negative Electrode for Lithium Ion Secondary Battery] The negative electrode for a lithium ion secondary battery of the present invention (hereinafter also abbreviated as a negative electrode) can be produced according to a method for producing a normal negative electrode, and is a chemically and electrochemically stable negative electrode. There are no restrictions on the production method. For the production of the negative electrode, a composite anode material to which a binder is added to the negative electrode material can be used. As the binder, those having chemical stability and electrochemical stability to the electrolyte are preferably used, and for example, a fluorine-based resin such as polyvinylidene fluoride or polytetrafluoroethylene, polyethylene, polyvinyl alcohol, or styrene can be used. Diene rubber, further carboxymethyl cellulose, and the like. The binder may also be used in combination. The binder is usually preferably in a proportion of from 1% by mass to 20% by mass based on the total amount of the negative electrode mixture. As the negative electrode, N-methylpyrrolidone, dimethylformamide, water, alcohol or the like which is a usual solvent for producing a negative electrode can be used. In the negative electrode, for example, a negative electrode mixture is dispersed in a solvent to prepare a creamy negative electrode mixture, and then the negative electrode mixture is applied to one surface or both surfaces of a current collector, followed by drying. Thereby, the negative electrode mixture layer (active material layer) was uniformly and firmly bonded to the negative electrode of the current collector. More specifically, for example, a slurry of the negative electrode material, a fluorine resin powder or a water dispersant of styrene butadiene rubber is mixed with a solvent to prepare a slurry, and a known mixer, a mixer, a kneader, and the like are used. A kneading machine or the like is stirred and mixed to prepare a negative electrode mixture paste. When the negative electrode mixture paste is applied onto a current collector and dried, the negative electrode mixture layer is uniformly and firmly bonded to the current collector. The film thickness of the negative electrode mixture layer is from 10 μm to 200 μm, preferably from 30 μm to 100 μm. Further, the negative electrode mixture layer may be produced by dry-mixing particles of the negative electrode material, resin powder such as polyethylene or polyvinyl alcohol, and hot press molding in a metal mold. However, in the dry mixing, a large amount of binder is required in order to obtain a sufficient strength of the negative electrode, and when the binder is too large, there is a case where the discharge capacity or the rapid charge and discharge efficiency is lowered. When the negative electrode mixture layer is formed and pressure-bonded by pressurization or the like, the adhesion strength between the negative electrode mixture layer and the current collector can be further improved. The density of the negative electrode mixture layer is preferably from 1.70 g/cm ³ to 1.85 g/cm ³ , particularly preferably from 1.75 g/cm ³ to 1.85 g/cm ³ in terms of increasing the volume capacity of the negative electrode. The shape of the current collector used for the negative electrode is not particularly limited, and is preferably a mesh such as a foil, a mesh, or an expanded metal. The material of the current collector is preferably copper, stainless steel, nickel or the like. When it is in the form of a foil, the thickness of the current collector is preferably 5 μm to 20 μm.

[Lithium Ion Secondary Battery] The lithium ion secondary battery of the present invention is formed using the negative electrode. The secondary battery of the present invention is not particularly limited, except for the use of the negative electrode, and other battery constituent elements are based on the elements of a general secondary battery. That is, the electrolytic solution, the negative electrode, and the positive electrode are used as main battery constituent elements, and the elements are sealed in, for example, a battery can. Further, the negative electrode and the positive electrode each function as a carrier of lithium ions, and lithium ions are separated from the negative electrode during charging.

[Positive Electrode] The positive electrode used in the secondary battery of the present invention is formed, for example, by applying a positive electrode mixture containing a positive electrode material, a binder, and a conductive material to the surface of the current collector. As the material of the positive electrode (positive electrode active material), a lithium compound can be used, but it is preferred to select a lithium which can be occluded/desorbed in a sufficient amount. For example, a transition metal oxide containing lithium, a transition metal chalcogenide, a vanadium oxide, or another lithium compound can be used, and the chemical formula M _X Mo ₆ OS _8-Y (where X is 0≦X≦4, Y is A value of a range of 0 ≦ Y ≦ 1, M is a Chevrel phase compound represented by at least one transition metal element, activated carbon, activated carbon fiber, or the like. The vanadium oxide is V ₂ O ₅ , V ₆ O ₁₃ , V ₂ O ₄ , V ₃ O ₈ or the like.

The lithium-containing transition metal composite oxide is a composite oxide of lithium and a transition metal, and may be one in which lithium is solid-solved with two or more transition metals. The composite oxide may be used singly or in combination of two or more. The lithium-containing transition metal composite oxide is specifically LiM1 _{1- X} M2 _X O ₂ (wherein X is a value in the range of 0≦X≦1, M1 and M2 are at least one transition metal element) or LiM1 _1-Y M2 _Y O ₄ (wherein Y is a value in the range of 0≦Y≦1, and M1 and M2 are at least one transition metal element). The transition metal element represented by M1 and M2 is Co, Ni, Mn, Cr, Ti, V, Fe, Zn, Al, In, Sn, etc., preferably Co, Mn, Cr, Ti, V, Fe, Al, or the like. . Preferred specific examples are LiCoO ₂ , LiNiO ₂ , LiMnO ₂ヽLiNi _0.9 Co _0.1 O ₂ヽLiNi _0.5 Co _0.5 O ₂ and the like. The lithium-containing transition metal oxide can be obtained, for example, by using lithium, a transition metal oxide, a hydroxide, a salt or the like as a starting material, which is based on the composition of the desired metal oxide. The raw materials are mixed and calcined in an oxygen atmosphere at a temperature of from 600 ° C to 1000 ° C.

The lithium active compound may be used singly as the positive electrode active material, or two or more kinds may be used in combination. Further, an alkali carbonate such as lithium carbonate may be added to the positive electrode. For the positive electrode, for example, a positive electrode mixture containing the lithium compound, a binder, and a conductive material for imparting conductivity to the positive electrode is applied to one surface or both surfaces of the current collector to form a positive electrode mixture layer. As the binder, the same as those used in the production of the negative electrode can be used. As the conductive material, a carbon material such as graphite or carbon black can be used.

Similarly to the negative electrode, the positive electrode mixture can be dispersed in a solvent, and the positive electrode mixture formed into a paste can be applied onto a current collector and dried to form a positive electrode mixture layer, after forming the positive electrode mixture layer. Further, pressure bonding such as pressurization and pressurization can be further performed. Thereby, the positive electrode mixture layer is uniformly and firmly bonded to the current collector. The shape of the current collector is not particularly limited, and is preferably a mesh shape such as a foil shape, a mesh or a porous metal. The material of the current collector is aluminum, stainless steel, nickel, and the like. When it is in the form of a foil, the thickness of the current collector is preferably from 10 μm to 40 μm.

[Nonaqueous Electrolyte] The nonaqueous electrolyte (electrolyte) used in the secondary battery of the present invention is an electrolyte salt used in a usual nonaqueous electrolytic solution. As the electrolyte salt, for example, LiPF ₆ , LiBF ₄ , LiAsF ₆ , LiClO ₄ , LiB(C ₆ H ₅ ) ₄ , LiCl, LiBr, LiCF ₃ SO ₃ , LiCH ₃ SO ₃ , LiN(CF ₃ SO ₂ ) can be used. ₂ , LiC(CF ₃ SO ₂ ) ₃ , LiN(CF ₃ CH ₂ OSO ₂ ) ₂ , LiN(CF ₃ CF ₂ OSO ₂ ) ₂ , LiN(HCF ₂ CF ₂ CH ₂ OSO ₂ ) ₂ , LiN[(CF _{3) 2 CHOSO 2] 2,} LiB [C 6 H 3 (CF 3) 2] 4, LiAlCl 4, LiSiF 5 lithium salt. Particularly, in terms of oxidative stability, LiPF ₆ and LiBF _{4 are} preferred. The electrolyte salt concentration of the electrolyte is preferably from 0.1 mol/L to 5 mol/L, more preferably from 0.5 mol/L to 3 mol/L.

The nonaqueous electrolyte may be in the form of a liquid, or may be a polymer electrolyte such as a solid or a gel. In the case of the former, the nonaqueous electrolyte battery is a so-called lithium ion secondary battery, and in the latter case, each is a polymer electrolyte battery such as a polymer solid electrolyte battery or a polymer gel electrolyte battery. As the solvent constituting the nonaqueous electrolyte liquid, a carbonate such as ethylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, dimethyl carbonate or diethyl carbonate, 1,1-dimethoxyethane or 1,2- can be used. Dimethoxyethane, 1,2-diethoxyethane, tetrahydrofuran, 2-methyltetrahydrofuran, γ-butyrolactone, 1,3-dioxolane, 4-methyl-1,3- Ethers such as dioxolane, anisole, diethyl ether, thioethers such as cyclobutyl hydrazine and methylcyclobutyl hydrazine, nitriles such as acetonitrile, chloronitrile, and propionitrile, trimethyl borate, tetramethyl citrate, and nitro Methane, dimethylformamide, N-methylpyrrolidone, ethyl acetate, trimethyl orthoformate, nitrobenzene, benzamidine chloride, benzamidine bromide, tetrahydrothiophene, dimethyl azine An aprotic organic solvent such as 3-methyl-2-oxazolidinone, ethylene glycol or dimethyl sulfite.

When the polymer electrolyte is used, it is preferred to use a polymer compound which is gelated by a plasticizer (nonaqueous electrolyte) as a matrix. As the polymer compound constituting the matrix, an ether-based polymer compound such as polyethylene oxide or a crosslinked product thereof, a polymethacrylate polymer compound, a polyacrylate polymer compound, and polyvinylidene fluoride can be used. Or a fluorine-based polymer compound such as a vinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene copolymer or the like is used singly or in combination. It is particularly preferable to use a fluorine-based polymer compound such as polyvinylidene fluoride or a vinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene copolymer.

A plasticizer is formulated in the polymer solid electrolyte or the polymer gel electrolyte. As the plasticizer, the electrolyte salt or the nonaqueous solvent can be used. In the case of a polymer gel electrolyte, the electrolyte salt concentration in the nonaqueous electrolyte as a plasticizer is preferably from 0.1 mol/L to 5 mol/L, more preferably from 0.5 mol/L to 2 mol/L.

The method for producing the polymer solid electrolyte is not particularly limited. For example, a method of mixing a polymer compound constituting a matrix, a lithium salt, and a nonaqueous solvent (plasticizer), heating the polymer compound, and dissolving the polymer compound and the lithium salt in the organic solvent for mixing may be mentioned. And a method of evaporating the organic solvent for mixing after the nonaqueous solvent (plasticizer); mixing the polymerizable monomer, the lithium salt, and the nonaqueous solvent (plasticizer), and irradiating the mixture with ultraviolet rays, electron beams, molecular beams, and the like A method of obtaining a polymer compound by polymerizing a polymerizable monomer. The proportion of the nonaqueous solvent (plasticizer) in the polymer solid electrolyte is preferably 10% by mass to 90% by mass, and more preferably 30% by mass to 80% by mass. When the ratio is less than 10% by mass, the electrical conductivity is low, and when the ratio exceeds 90% by mass, the mechanical strength is weak, and it is difficult to form a film.

In the lithium ion secondary battery of the present invention, a separator may also be used. The material of the separator is not particularly limited, and examples thereof include a woven fabric, a non-woven fabric, and a microporous film made of a synthetic resin. A microporous film made of a synthetic resin is preferable, and among them, a polyolefin-based microporous film is preferable in terms of thickness, film strength, and film resistance. Specifically, it is a microporous film made of polyethylene or polypropylene, or a microporous film obtained by recombining the above.

The secondary battery of the present invention is produced by laminating the negative electrode, the positive electrode, and the nonaqueous electrolyte in the order of, for example, a negative electrode, a nonaqueous electrolyte, and a positive electrode, and accommodating them in an exterior material of the battery. Further, a nonaqueous electrolyte can be disposed outside the negative electrode and the positive electrode.

The structure of the secondary battery of the present invention is not particularly limited, and the shape and form thereof are not particularly limited, and may be from a cylindrical type, an angle type, a wafer type, or a button depending on the application, the equipment to be mounted, and the required charge and discharge capacity. Any choice of type. In order to obtain a sealed non-aqueous electrolyte battery having higher safety, it is preferable to provide a mechanism for sensing that the internal pressure of the battery rises and blocks the current when an abnormality such as overcharge occurs. When it is a polymer electrolyte battery, it may be a structure enclosed in a laminated film. Example

Hereinafter, the present invention will be specifically described by way of examples, but the invention is not limited to the examples. In the examples and the comparative examples, a button-type secondary battery for evaluation having the configuration shown in Fig. 1 was produced and evaluated. The battery can be fabricated in accordance with the purpose of the present invention in accordance with known methods.

(Example 1) [Preparation of spheroidized graphite particles (A)] The scaly natural graphite having an average particle diameter of 55 μm was pulverized and subjected to folding processing while being rotated, and shaped into a spherical shape, and an average particle was obtained. The diameter is adjusted to 12 μm, the average aspect ratio is adjusted to 1.4, (d ₀₀₂ ) is adjusted to 0.3357 nm, the specific surface area is adjusted to 7.0 m ² /g, and the pore volume of the pore diameter of 0.5 μm or less by the mercury pore meter is adjusted to 0.12 ml/g. The spherical graphite particles were compressed by a metal mold at a pressure of 0.5 ton / cm ² , and the average particle diameter was adjusted to 12 μm, the average aspect ratio was adjusted to 1.8, and (d _{0 02} ) was adjusted to 0.3357 nm. The specific surface area was adjusted to 6.5 m ² /g, and the pore volume of the pore diameter of 0.5 μm or less by the mercury pore meter was adjusted to 0.08 ml/g.

[Preparation of composite graphite particles (C1)] 100 parts by mass of the spheroidized graphite particles (A), a softening point of a precursor of the carbonaceous material (B1) of 80 ° C and a residual carbon ratio of 50% 8 parts by mass of pulverized product of tar pitch (average particle diameter of 4 μm) and 2 parts by mass of scaly natural graphite having an average particle diameter of 5 μm, and calcined once at 500 ° C for 1 hour in a rotary kiln under nitrogen atmosphere Thereafter, the mixture was calcined at 1,100 ° C for 3 hours in a nitrogen atmosphere to obtain composite graphite particles (C1) containing the carbonaceous material (B1) and the spheroidized graphite particles (A). The obtained composite graphite particles (C1) had a sieve yield of 99.8% by a sieve having a mesh size of 53 μm, and were substantially not welded. If the sieve is recovered for analysis, the average particle size is 13 μm, the average aspect ratio is 1.8, (d ₀₀₂ ) is 0.3357 nm, the specific surface area is 3.6 m ² /g, and the pore diameter of the pores is 0.5 μm by the mercury pore meter. The following pore volume was 0.06 ml/g. When the composite graphite particles (C1) were observed by a scanning electron microscope, the scaly natural graphite was adhered to the surface, but it was a smooth ellipsoid-coated graphite particle. No particles of calcined carbon derived from coal tar pitch were observed, and no pulverized fracture surface derived from cracking of the welded portion was observed.

[Preparation of composite graphite particles (C2)] 100 parts by mass of the spheroidized graphite particles (A), a coal tar having a softening point of 270 ° C and a residual carbon ratio of 80% as a precursor of the graphite material (B2) 25 parts by mass of the pulverized product of the asphalt heat-treated product (average particle diameter: 5 μm) was mixed, and once calcined in a rotary kiln at 500 ° C for 1 hour in a nitrogen atmosphere, and then carried out at 2800 ° C in a non-oxidizing atmosphere. After hourly graphitization, composite graphite particles (C2) containing a graphite material (B2) and spheroidized graphite particles (A) were obtained.

The obtained composite graphite particles (C2) had a sieve yield of 99.5% by a sieve having a mesh size of 53 μm, and were substantially not welded. If the undersize fraction is recovered for analysis, the average particle size is 14 μm, the average aspect ratio is 1.8, (d ₀₀₂ ) is 0.3358 nm, the specific surface area is 0.6 m ² /g, and the pore diameter is 0.5 by the mercury pore meter. The pore volume below μm is 0.04 ml/g. The composite graphite particles (C2) were observed by a scanning electron microscope, and as a result, the coated graphite particles having a smooth ellipsoidal shape were obtained. No graphite particles alone derived from the heat treatment of the coal tar pitch were observed, and no pulverized fracture surface derived from the fracture of the welded portion was observed.

[Preparation of Mixed Graphite Particles] 50 parts by mass of the composite graphite particles (C1) and 50 parts by mass of the composite graphite particles (C2) were mixed. The mixture has an average particle diameter of 14 μm, an average aspect ratio of 1.8, (d ₀₀₂ ) of 0.3358 nm, a specific surface area of 2.1 m ² /g, and a pore volume of pore diameter of 0.5 μm or less by a mercury pore size meter. The knock-tightness of 0.05 ml/g and 300 times was 1.21 g/cm ³ . The mixture 200 measured at any point in the vicinity of 1360 cm ^-1 to a peak intensity of Raman spectrum (I ₁₃₆₀₎ and the peak intensity nearby ₁₅₈₀ cm ^-1 (I 1580) of the intensity ratio (I ₁₃₆₀ / I ₁₅₈₀₎ Distribution, The results are shown in Fig. 2. A maximum peak is exhibited in the vicinity of the intensity ratio (I ₁₃₆₀ /I ₁₅₈₀ ) of 0.04 and 0.172.

[Preparation of the negative electrode mixture] 98 parts by mass of the negative electrode material, 1 part by mass of the binder carboxymethylcellulose, and 1 part by mass of the styrene butadiene rubber were added to water and stirred to prepare a negative electrode mixture paste.

[Production of Working Electrode] The negative electrode mixture paste was applied to a copper foil having a thickness of 16 μm in a uniform thickness, and then the water of the dispersion medium was evaporated and dried at 90 ° C in a vacuum. Then, the negative electrode mixture coated on the copper foil was pressed by manual pressing at 12 kN/cm ² (120 MPa), and then punched into a circular shape having a diameter of 15.5 mm, thereby being formed to be in close contact with the copper foil. A working electrode of a negative electrode mixture layer (having a thickness of 60 μm). The density of the negative electrode mixture layer was 1.75 g/cm ³ . The working electrode has no elongation and deformation, and the current collector observed from the cross section has no depression.

[Production of the opposite pole] The lithium metal foil was extruded on a nickel mesh and punched into a circular shape having a diameter of 15.5 mm, and a current collector including a nickel mesh and a lithium metal foil in close contact with the current collector were produced ( The opposite pole with a thickness of 0.5 mm).

[Electrolyte-Separator] LiPF _{6 was} dissolved in a mixed solvent of 33 vol% of ethylene carbonate and 67 vol% of ethyl methyl carbonate to prepare a nonaqueous electrolytic solution at a concentration of 1 mol/L. The obtained nonaqueous electrolytic solution was impregnated with a porous polypropylene body (thickness: 20 μm) to prepare a separator impregnated with an electrolytic solution.

[Production of Evaluation Battery] A coin-type secondary battery shown in Fig. 1 was produced as an evaluation battery. The outer casing 1 and the outer can 3 are interposed with an insulating spacer 6 at a peripheral portion thereof, and the both peripheral edges are interspersed and sealed. In the evaluation battery, a current collector 7a including a nickel mesh, a cylindrical counter electrode 4 containing a lithium foil, a separator 5 impregnated with an electrolyte, and a circle containing a negative electrode mixture are sequentially laminated from the inner surface of the outer can 3. A battery for the disk-shaped working electrode 2 and the current collector 7b including the copper foil. In the evaluation battery, the separator 5 impregnated with the electrolytic solution is sandwiched between the working electrode 2 that is in close contact with the current collector 7b and the counter electrode 4 that is in close contact with the current collector 7a, and then the working electrode 2 is housed in the exterior. In the cup 1, the counter electrode 4 is housed in the outer can 3, and the outer cup 1 and the outer can 3 are combined, and then the insulating pad 6 is placed on the peripheral portion of the outer cup 1 and the outer can 3, and two The peripheral portion is filled with gaps and made. The evaluation battery is a battery including a working electrode 2 containing graphite particles which can be used as a negative electrode active material, and a counter electrode 4 containing a lithium metal foil.

The evaluation battery fabricated in the manner described above was subjected to a charge and discharge test as described below at a temperature of 25 ° C, and a discharge capacity per unit mass, a discharge capacity per unit volume, an initial charge and discharge efficiency, a rapid charge rate, and a rapid discharge. Rate and cycle characteristics were evaluated. The evaluation results are shown in Table 1 (indicating Table 1-1 and Table 1-2. The same applies hereinafter).

[Discharge capacity per unit mass, discharge capacity per unit volume] After constant current charging of 0.9 mA until the circuit voltage reaches 0 mV, switch to constant voltage charging and continue charging until the current value reaches 20 μA. The charging capacity per unit mass is obtained from the amount of energization therebetween. Then, stop for 120 minutes. Then, constant current discharge was performed at a current value of 0.9 mA until the circuit voltage reached 1.5 V, and a discharge capacity per unit mass was obtained from the amount of energization therebetween. The process is set to the first cycle. According to the charge capacity and discharge capacity in the first cycle, the initial charge and discharge efficiency was calculated according to the following formula. Initial charge and discharge efficiency (%) = (discharge capacity / charge capacity) × 100 Further, in the test, the process of occluding lithium ions from the negative electrode material was set as charging, and the process of separating lithium ions from the negative electrode material was set as Discharge.

[Fast Charging Rate] Fast charging is performed by the second cycle after the first cycle. The current value was set to 7.2 mA eight times that of the first cycle, and constant current charging was performed until the circuit voltage reached 0 mV, and the constant current charging capacity was obtained, and the rapid charging rate was calculated according to the following formula. Fast charging rate (%) = (constant current charging capacity in the second cycle / discharge capacity in the first cycle) × 100

[Rapid Discharge Rate] Using another evaluation battery, rapid discharge was performed by the second cycle after the first cycle. After the first cycle was performed in the same manner as described above, charging was performed in the same manner as in the first cycle, and then the current value was set to 18 mA which was 20 times that of the first cycle, and constant current discharge was performed until the circuit voltage reached 1.5 V. The discharge capacity per unit mass was obtained from the amount of energization therebetween, and the rapid discharge rate was calculated according to the following formula. Rapid discharge rate (%) = (discharge capacity in the second cycle / discharge capacity in the first cycle) × 100

[Cycle Characteristics] An evaluation battery different from the evaluation battery in which the discharge capacity per unit mass, the initial charge and discharge efficiency, the rapid charge rate, and the rapid discharge rate were evaluated was prepared as follows. In place of the lithium foil, a positive electrode obtained by coating a mixture of lithium cobalt oxide and carbon black on an aluminum foil using polyvinylidene fluoride as a binder is used as the four pairs of the button battery of FIG. 1 . The positive electrode active material mass was adjusted so as to exhibit a discharge capacity equivalent to 95% of the charge capacity of the negative electrode. After constant current charging of 7.2 mA until the circuit voltage reaches 4.2 V, switch to constant voltage charging, continue charging until the current value reaches 120 μA, and then stop for 10 minutes. Then, constant current discharge is performed at a current value of 7.2 mA until the circuit voltage reaches 3 V. The charge and discharge were repeated 100 times, and the cycle characteristics were calculated according to the obtained discharge capacity using the following formula. Cycle characteristics (%) = (discharge capacity in the 100th cycle / discharge capacity in the first cycle) × 100

As shown in Table 1, the evaluation electrode obtained by using the negative electrode material of Example 1 as the working electrode can increase the density of the active material to 1.75 g/cm ³ and exhibit a high discharge capacity per unit mass and a high initial value. Charge and discharge efficiency. Therefore, the discharge capacity per unit volume can be greatly increased. Among the high densities, fast charge rates, rapid discharge rates, and cycle characteristics also maintain excellent results.

(Examples 2 to 5) In the same manner as in Example 1, except that the mixing ratio of the composite graphite particles (C1) and the composite graphite particles (C2) was changed, the pressing pressure was changed in the same manner as in Example 1. The density of the negative electrode mixture layer was adjusted to 1.75 g/cm ³ to prepare a working electrode, and an evaluation battery was prepared. The same charge and discharge test as in Example 1 was carried out, and the evaluation results of the battery characteristics are shown in Table 1.

(Comparative Example 1 and Comparative Example 2) In the same manner as in Example 1, except that the composite graphite particles (C1) and the composite graphite particles (C2) were mixed as the negative electrode material, respectively, in the first embodiment. The density of the negative electrode mixture layer was adjusted to 1.75 g/cm ³ to prepare a working electrode, and an evaluation battery was prepared. The same charge and discharge test as in Example 1 was carried out, and the evaluation results of the battery characteristics are shown in Table 1. Further, the relationship between the mixing ratio of the composite graphite particles (C1) and the composite graphite particles (C2) and the battery characteristics together with Examples 1 to 5 is shown in FIGS. 3 to 5 .

The mixed graphite particles of the present invention have both the rapid charging rate shown in Fig. 3, the rapid discharge rate shown in Fig. 4, and the cycle characteristics shown in Fig. 5 at a high level. On the other hand, when the composite graphite particles (C1) and the composite graphite particles (C2) are not mixed, and each of them is used as a negative electrode material alone, any of the characteristics of the rapid charge rate and the rapid discharge rate is insufficient, and the cycle characteristics are also affected. difference.

(Example 6) A working electrode was produced in the same manner as in Example 1 except that the density of the negative electrode mixture layer was changed to 1.80 g/cm ³ (Example 6), and evaluation was made. battery. The same charge and discharge test as in Example 1 was carried out, and the evaluation results of the battery characteristics are shown in Table 1. As the density of the negative electrode mixture layer is increased, the characteristics of each battery tend to decrease, but a sufficiently high level is maintained at a density of 1.80 g/cm ³ . On the other hand, if the density is excessively increased, the deformation of the copper foil as the current collector or the deterioration of the battery characteristics become remarkable.

(Examples 7 to 9 and Comparative Examples 3 to 7) In Example 1, the average particle diameter, the average aspect ratio, the presence or absence of compression treatment, and the carbonaceous material (B1) of the spheroidized graphite particles (A) were carried out. And the ratio of the graphite material (B2), the presence or absence of the flaky natural graphite in the composite graphite particles (C1), and the addition of 2 parts by mass together with the precursor of the graphite material (B2) in the production of the composite graphite particles (C2) A working electrode was fabricated in the same manner as in Example 1 except that the graphitized carbon fiber having a length of 120 nmf and 5 μm was operated, and an evaluation battery was produced. The same charge and discharge test as in Example 1 was carried out, and the evaluation results of the battery characteristics are shown in Table 1. The physical properties of the mixed graphite particles are shown in Table 1.

When the surface interval (d ₀₀₂ ) of the carbon mesh layer as a component of the mixed graphite particles exceeds 0.3360 nm, the discharge capacity is low. When the knocking degree is less than 1.0 g/cm ³ or the average aspect ratio is 4 or more, the rapid discharge rate or the cycle characteristics are insufficient. When the average particle diameter is less than 5 μm, the initial charge and discharge efficiency is low, and when the average particle diameter exceeds 25 μm, the rapid charge rate or cycle characteristics are insufficient. When the pore volume of the pore diameter of 0.5 μm or less by the mercury pore meter is more than 0.08 ml/g, the cycle characteristics are relatively poor.

(Example 10) The same manner as in Example 1 except that 15 parts by mass of the block-like mesophase graphitate shown below was mixed as the other negative electrode material in 85 parts by mass of the mixed graphite particles of Example 9 , the working electrode was fabricated, and the evaluation battery was fabricated. The same charge and discharge test as in Example 1 was carried out, and the evaluation results of the battery characteristics are shown in Table 1. The physical properties of the mixed graphite particles are shown in Table 1.

[Preparation of bulk mesophase graphitized material] The coal tar pitch was heated to 400 ° C for 12 hours in an inert atmosphere, and then naturally cooled to a normal temperature in an inert atmosphere. The obtained bulky mesophase was pulverized and shaped into a block having an average aspect ratio of 1.6 and an average particle diameter of 10 μm. Then, it was oxidized by heat treatment at 280 ° C for 15 minutes in the air, and after infusibilization treatment, it was subjected to graphitization treatment at 900 ° C for 6 hours and at 3000 ° C for 5 hours in a non-oxidizing atmosphere. Bulk mesophase graphitization. The particle shape of the obtained bulk mesophase graphitized material maintains the shape at the time of pulverization. (d ₀₀₂ ) was 0.3362 nm and the specific surface area was 1.2 m ² /g.

(Example 11) 10 parts by mass of the bulk mesophase graphitate shown in Example 10 as another negative electrode material, and the coated carbonaceous material shown below, in 80 parts by mass of the mixed graphite particles of Example 9 A working electrode was produced in the same manner as in Example 1 except that the amount of the flaky graphite was 5 parts by mass, and an evaluation battery was produced. The same charge and discharge test as in Example 1 was carried out, and the evaluation results of the battery characteristics are shown in Table 1. The physical properties of the mixed graphite particles are shown in Table 1.

[Table 1-1]

[Table 1-2]

[Preparation of scaly graphite coated with carbonaceous material] In 100 parts by mass of scaly natural graphite having an average particle diameter of 5 μm, the softening point of the precursor mixed as a carbonaceous material was 80 ° C, and the residual carbon ratio was 50%. 3 parts by mass of the pulverized coal tar pitch (average particle diameter: 3 μm), calcined once in a rotary kiln under nitrogen atmosphere at 500 ° C for 1 hour, and then under nitrogen atmosphere at 1100 ° C. An hourly calcination treatment is carried out to obtain scaly natural graphite coated with a carbonaceous material. The obtained scaly natural graphite coated with a carbonaceous material had an average particle diameter of 5 μm, an average aspect ratio of 34, (d ₀₀₂ ) of 0.3357 nm, and a specific surface area of 7.0 m ² /g.

As shown in Table 1, excellent initial charge and discharge efficiency which is a feature of the present invention can be obtained by using other negative electrode materials in a range which does not impair the high discharge capacity of the mixed graphite particles of the present invention. , fast charging rate, fast discharge rate and cycle characteristics.

As described above, in the embodiment in which the working electrode is formed by the predetermined negative electrode material of the present invention, the density of the negative electrode mixture layer, the discharge capacity, the initial charge and discharge efficiency, the rapid charge rate, the rapid discharge rate, and the cycle characteristics can be improved. One is excellent. On the other hand, in the comparative example in which the working electrode was produced by the negative electrode material of the present invention, the discharge capacity, the initial charge and discharge efficiency, the rapid charge rate, the rapid discharge rate, and the cycle characteristics were insufficient. [Industrial availability]

The negative electrode material of the present invention can be used for a negative electrode material of a lithium ion secondary battery which is effective in helping to reduce the size and performance of the equipment to be mounted.

1‧‧‧outer cup
2‧‧‧Working electrode
3‧‧‧Outer cans
4‧‧‧ pole
5‧‧‧Parts
6‧‧‧Insulation pad
7a, 7b‧‧‧ collector

Fig. 1 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the structure of a button type evaluation battery used for a charge and discharge test in the examples. Example 2 is a mixture of an embodiment of the peak intensity near 1360 cm ^-1 in the Raman spectrum of (I ₁₃₆₀₎ and the intensity of the peak intensity nearby 1580 cm ^-1 (I ₁₅₈₀₎ ratio (I ₁₃₆₀ / I ₁₅₈₀₎ Distribution A chart of the measurement results. Fig. 3 is a graph showing the fast charging rate with respect to the mixing ratio (C2) / [(C1) + (C2)]. 4 is a graph showing a rapid discharge rate with respect to a mixing ratio (C2) / [(C1) + (C2)]. Fig. 5 is a graph showing cycle characteristics with respect to a mixing ratio (C2) / [(C1) + (C2)].

no

Claims (5)

A graphite particle for a negative electrode material for a lithium ion secondary battery, which is a mixture of composite graphite particles (C1) and composite graphite particles (C2), which are shaped into a spherical shape or a substantially spherical shape At least a part of the particles of the spheroidized graphite particles (A) and the surface of the particles have a carbonaceous material (B1), and the composite graphite particles (C2) are inside the particles of the spheroidized graphite particles (A) and At least a part of the surface of the particle has a graphite material (B2), and the mixture satisfies the following (1) to (5): (1) The surface spacing (d ₀₀₂ ) of the carbon mesh surface layer is 0.3360 nm or less, (2) ) tightness of knock 1.0 g / cm ³ or more, (3) average particle size 5 μm ~ 25 μm, (4 ) an average aspect ratio of 1.2 or more, less than 4.0, and thin (5) by mercury pore meter The pore volume having a pore diameter of 0.5 μm or less is 0.08 ml/g or less. The graphite particles for a negative electrode material for a lithium ion secondary battery according to the first aspect of the invention, wherein the spheroidized graphite particles (A) in the composite graphite particles (C1) are 100 parts by mass or more The content of the carbonaceous material (B1) is 0.1 parts by mass to 10 parts by mass, and the carbonaceous material (B2) is 100 parts by mass based on 100 parts by mass of the spheroidized graphite particles (A) in the composite graphite particles (C2). The content is 5 parts by mass to 30 parts by mass. The graphite particles for a lithium ion secondary battery negative electrode material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein a ratio of the composite graphite particles (C1) to the composite graphite particles (C2) is 1:99~90:10. A lithium ion secondary battery negative electrode comprising the graphite particles for a lithium ion secondary battery negative electrode material according to any one of claims 1 to 3. A lithium ion secondary battery having the lithium ion secondary battery negative electrode according to item 4 of the patent application.