WSU researchers have invented a novel method to produce dispersion-optimized SiNP within a conducting Graphene matrix forming a standalone composite anode material. The method creates small clusters to lone particle distributions maximizing the nanomaterial properties of SiNP yielding anodes with improved capacity retention and rate performance. It utilizes combinations of high power/energy sonics and chemical surfactants that warrant proper distribution of non-agglomerated SiNPs.
Regular ultrasonication is the principal preparative technique used to disperse Si particles in current silicon/carbon based composite anodes. These result in fairly uniform distribution of large agglomerated Si particles which exhibit large initial discharge capacities. However, due to the macro scale particle configuration, significant capacity decay is observed on the succeeding cycles. What is left afterwards is typically a stable capacity around 60 % of the first discharge.
Commercial Applications:
Energy storage for:
· Vehicle propulsion
· Intermittent energy sources
· Other high energy sources
Technological Advantages:
· Optimized dispersion of the particles within the composite using high power/energy dispersion techniques coupled with surfactants that is simple and inexpensive to execute
· Increase the current energy content of Lithium ion batteries by as much as 5 times