Silicon Particles for Improved Energy Density Anodes in Lithium-Ion Batteries

With the escalating demand for efficient energy storage solutions driven by global energy challenges, lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries have emerged as critical components across diverse sectors, including electric mobility and aerospace applications. To address limitations in energy density and cycle life, numerous enhancement strategies have been explored. Among these, the incorporation of silicon into the anode material has garnered significant attention due to its high theoretical specific capacity and potential to substantially improve overall battery performance. Therefore, in this study, the focus is on silicon anode material and its optimisation by varying the amount of silicon and electrolyte composition. Anodes containing 20% and 30% silicon microparticles were prepared. The cells were analysed using three different electrolytes to enhance the battery lifetime. The electrolyte has a considerable impact on the overall cell performance. The optimised electrolyte with additives prolonged the cycle life up to 300 cycles, with the capacity of 629 mAhg^-1 and 487 mAh g^-1 for 20% and 30% silicon anodes, respectively, corresponding to capacity retentions of 56% and 36%.