Structural Design and Challenges of Micron-Scale Silicon-Based Lithium-ion Batteries

Currently, lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are at the forefront of energy storage technologies. Silicon-based anodes, with their high capacity and low cost, present a promising alternative to traditional graphite anodes in LIBs, offering the potential for substantial improvements in energy density. However, the significant volumetric changes that silicon-based anodes undergo during charge and discharge cycles can lead to structural degradation. Furthermore, the formation of excessive solid-electrolyte interphases (SEIs) during cycling impedes the efficient migration of ions and electrons. This comprehensive review focuses on the structural design and optimization of micron-scale silicon-based anodes from both materials and systems perspectives. Significant progress is made in the development of advanced electrolytes, binders, and conductive additives that complement micron-scale silicon-based anodes in both half and full-cells. Moreover, advancements in system-level technologies, such as pre-lithiation techniques to mitigate irreversible Li⁺ loss, have enhanced the energy density and lifespan of micron-scale silicon-based full cells. This review concludes with a detailed classification of the underlying mechanisms, providing a comprehensive summary to guide the development of high-energy-density devices. It also offers strategic insights to address the challenges associated with the large-scale deployment of silicon-based LIBs.