Current non-carbon-based anode materials for lithium ion batteries have shown high capacity, and they could be the material of choice for batteries in electronic vehicles. However, their capacity decreases rapidly over tens of cycles, and current approaches have failed to resolve two important issues: (1) the irreversible capacity loss during the first cycle, and (2) the inability to scale up the non-carbon-based anode for large scale manufacturing. This project will develop a nanostructured, tin-based anode for lithium ion batteries. Both morphology and stoichiometry will be engineered, which will significantly increase the specific capacity, cycleability, and rate capability of the anode and eliminate the reversible capacity loss incurred during initial cycling. An economical, one-step fabrication technique will be developed, in which a nano-engineered electrode structure will be combined with a unique ultrathin separator without using any templates. The approach will allow for larger cell power, ease of assembly, and no need to use the costly separator. Last but not least, a simpler version of this process can be developed for large-scale manufacturing, which will make the process economical and suitable for commercialization.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The nanostructured electrodes should replace existing carbon-based electrodes as a high capacity, low cost anode material. The new anode should have immediate commercial applications in advanced lithium ion batteries for portable electronics application. Near term applications in electric vehicles and hybrid-electric vehicles also are anticipated
