## 4 Results and Discussion
### Stabilization of CB
#### 4.2.1 Methodology  
Based on the empirical results, a methodology was derived to support the selection and application of a suitable dispersant for organic electrode components (see Figure 12).  
Initally, dispersions of varying dispersant content are prepared and their sedimentation behavior is evaluated.  
If no strong sedimentation is observed, the viscosity of the dispersions \(\eta\) is determined as a function of the dispersant content \(\omega\). Measurements are performed at a suitable pH value (range) \(pH_{1}\), as stated in the literature. The minimum suitable dispersant content \(\omega_{min,1}\) is present when the viscosity reaches a minimum. The zeta potential \(\zeta\) is measured as a function of the pH value. The investigated dispersions contain the minimum amount of dispersant \(\omega_{min,1}\) identified in the previous viscosity measurements. This enables both the pH value dependence of the zeta potential and the pH value at the lowest zeta potential \(pH_{2}\) to be more precisely determined. Based on this, the viscosity measurements are repeated for the pH value, for which the zeta potential marked the highest absolute value \(pH_{2}\). This allows for evaluating how the minimum dispersant content changes with the pH value. The particle size distribution of the dispersions is then measured. The dispersions contain the minimum amount of dispersant \(\omega_{min,2}\) and they are adjusted to the pH value \(pH_{2}\). The highest detected particle size represents the threshold particle size \(x_{t}\).  
In the event of sedimentation, a different procedure has to be pursued. Optical evaluation is then performed by examining the average gray value \(GW\) as a function of the dispersant content. The minimum dispersant content \(\omega_{min}\) is that of the dispersion exhibiting the lowest average gray value. To identify a suitable pH value \(pH_{2}\), the test series is repeated for different pH values at a constant dispersant content \(\omega_{min,1}\). The average gray value is then measured for the pH value for which the average gray value marked the lowest value \(pH_{2}\). Based on this, the particle size can be analyzed while using a filtering method. The pore size must be selected, such that it represents the upper limit of the particle size \(x_{t}\). For an initial assessment, it is sufficient to analyze the gray value as a function of the dispersant content at \(pH_{1}\) as well as the filtering method. Thus, the subsequent steps are omitted in the initial analysis. Because of the expected higher basic stability resulting from the addition of binder in the next step, it is expected that a full characterization is feasible on the basis of quantifiable variables comprising viscosity, zeta potential, and particle size distribution.  
To assess printability in terms of particle size, \(x_{t}\) can be compared with the threshold value range that is stated in the rules of thumb in the literature. Based on this, the dispersions are categorized into printable and non-printable. Finally, the expected impact of the dispersants on the final cell properties is evaluated.  
Figure 12: Flow chart showing the methodology; the symbols of the illustration were selected according to DIN 66001 [53]).