The Effect of Silicon Anode Morphology on the Energy Storage Performance of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Abstract

With the transition of traditional energies to more environmentally friendly options, due to environmental protection and the energy crisis, this has further pushed the need for environmentally friendly but also high performing energy sources. For electrical batteries, lithium-ion batteries (LiBs), are being used a lot due to their long lifespan and high energy density. However, the conventional graphite anode used in these batteries seems to have halted development for LiBs, restricting further improvement. With this issue, Silicon has emerged as a frontrunner as an alternative anode material due to its high theoretical capacity, it is also relatively cheap, while being heavily abundant. This study will investigate the influence of silicon anode morphology on the energy storage performance of Lithium-ion batteries through a literature and analytical lens, putting emphasis on the structural evolution, mechanism, and the advantages and disadvantages of Lithium, while diving deeper on four key morphologies, them being nanoparticles, nanotubes/ nanowires, bulk silicon, and thin films. Recent research shows that nanoscale structures and core–shell composites can help relieve mechanical stress from volume expansion, while interface engineering and advanced binders improve SEI stability and performance cycles. Results show that combining interface design with stable synthesis, is crucial to bringing out silicon’s full potential. This study will therefore contribute to the development of durable and high-capacity anodes for next-generation energy Lithiumion batteries and storage technology as a whole.