Development of Advanced Lithium Rechargeable Batteries and Scalable Manufacturing Processes

Demand for higher-capacity batteries has been rising exponentially from industries such as zero-emission vehicles, smart grids, unmanned aerial vehicles, and many others. However, current battery technology is limited by graphite anode materials, which have a low specific capacity. Furthermore, the manufacturing process of battery-grade graphites is criticized for the amount of GHG and environmental damage created.
Silicon, with eleven times the energy density than graphite, introduces a promising avenue for innovation to enhance battery performance. However, silicon’s significant volume expansion during lithiation cycles leads to rapid degradation. Current efforts to make silicon anodes commercially viable involve complex, energy-intensive, and costly manufacturing processes. These challenges require innovative materials engineering, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable practices.
We aim to develop a scalable, cost-efficient, and greenhouse gas emission-reducing manufacturing process for silicon-based anode materials. In this research, we will develop techniques applicable to different aspects of manufacturing processes, including utilization of industry byproduct materials, surface engineering of silicon particles, thin and conforming carbon coating, and energy-efficient heat application. The processes will be evaluated by battery electrochemical performance, energy consumption, greenhouse gas generation, and manufacturing costs.

Faculty Supervisor:

Seonghwan Kim

Student:

Partner:

MakeSens Advanced Battery Materials

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing; Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Calgary

Program: