Topology Optimized Prelithiated SiO Anode Materials for Lithium-Ion Batteries

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Battery Technology

Background:

• Silicon monoxide (SiO) materials show promise as high-capacity anodes for lithium-ion batteries.
• Existing SiO anodes face challenges with low initial coulombic efficiency (ICE) and poor cycle stability.
• Simultaneously resolving low ICE and poor cycle stability in SiO anodes remains a significant hurdle.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effectiveness of topological optimization in improving the electrochemical performance of prelithiated SiO anode materials.
• To understand the microstructural evolution during heat treatment and its impact on battery performance.
• To achieve high ICE and enhanced capacity retention in SiO-based anodes.

Main Methods:

• Topological optimization of prelithiated SiO materials.
• Laser-assisted atom probe tomography for microstructural analysis.
• Thermogravimetry and differential scanning calorimetry to study reaction kinetics and thermal behavior.

Main Results:

• Heat treatment at 650 °C optimized the topological arrangement of Si and Li₂ SiO₃ phases.
• Optimized prelithiated SiO achieved an ICE of ≈90% and a reversible capacity of 1164 mAh g^-1.
• The optimized electrode exhibited 73.4% capacity retention and 68% thickness change after 300 cycles.

Conclusions:

• Topological optimization is a highly effective strategy for enhancing SiO anode performance.
• Microstructural evolution, particularly the arrangement of active Si and Li₂ SiO₃ phases, is critical for improved electrochemical properties.
• Optimized SiO anodes offer a viable solution for high-performance lithium-ion batteries.