Surface texturing of current collector to accommodate silicon volume change in Li-ion battery anode

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) represent the most employed technology for use in electric vehicles as they offer high capacity, cycle-life, and power at reduced weight and dimensions. Current LIB anodes are mainly carbon-based materials with a limited theoretical capacity. On the other hand, a silicon (Si) anode has a theoretical capacity close to an order magnitude of carbon. However, during the battery charge-discharge process, the Si anode has high volume changes of up to 300%, causing cracking, excess solid electrolyte formation, and electrolyte consumption, resulting in rapid battery performance losses. This research study will provide a new method to accommodate the high volume change of the Si anode during the charge-discharge process of LIBs through surface texturing of the anode current collector. The designed anode surfaces will be studied and analyzed, and modifications will be applied to minimize the silicon damage during the charge-discharge process.

Faculty Supervisor:

Reza Riahi

Student:

Partner:

Flex-Ion Battery Innovation Center

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Manufacturing

University:

University of Windsor

Program: