Korean researchers develop silicon-graphene composite anode material for lithium-ion batteries, plan to move it into mass production

Silicon has long been regarded as a promising alternative to graphite, the standard anode material in lithium-ion batteries, because it can store roughly 10 times more energy. But its tendency to swell and crack during charging cycles, coupled with low electrical conductivity, has limited its use. Researchers at the government-funded institute said they had overcome those hurdles by combining silicon with graphene. In the composite, graphene forms a mesh-like coating around silicon particles, reducing structural degradation and improving stability.

The Korea Electrotechnology Research Institute (KERI) has announced it is preparing to move its silicon-graphene composite anode material for lithium-ion batteries into mass production, a step that could extend the range of electric vehicles and improve battery performance in consumer electronics.Silicon has long been regarded as a promising alternative to graphite, the standard anode material in lithium-ion batteries, because it can store roughly 10 times more energy. But its tendency to swell and crack during charging cycles, coupled with low electrical conductivity, has limited its use. Researchers at the government-funded institute said they had overcome those hurdles by combining silicon with graphene. In the composite, graphene forms a mesh-like coating around silicon particles, reducing structural degradation and improving stability.

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