Low-cost, High Energy Si/Graphene Anodes for Li-ion Batteries

Lithium-ion batteries are being pursued for a variety of applications including electric or hybrid electric vehicles (EVs), consumer electronics, grid energy storage systems and distributed power generation units. The success of Li-ion batteries (LiBs) in such markets strongly depends on the cost, energy density, power capability, cycle life, and safety of the battery cells, which are largely dominated by the electrode materials used. While LiB technologies have advanced significantly, the DOE EV Everywhere program EV cell target of 400 Wh/kg with 1000 cycles, at cost of ownership comparable to conventional ICE vehicles cannot be met with current LiB chemistries, especially with graphite as the anode due to its low capacity. Therefore, there is a strong need to develop advanced anodes for future generation Li-ion batteries. Silicon is considered as the most promising anode material due to its high capacity and proper working voltage. XGS proposes to develop a high performance Silicon (Si)/graphene composite anode via a low cost process to enable EV and HEV LiB applications. With a combination of a composite Si/graphene anode structure design, LiB electrode engineering with grapheme nanoplatelets, and a proven low-cost material manufacturing process, XGS is well positioned to mass produce and sell this material in large volume once the technical barriers in battery performance are overcome. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits XG Sciences’ low-cost Li-ion battery anode material will help enable affordable extended range EVs, smart phones and consumer electronics with significantly greater run-time, and electric grid storage required by increased use of renewable energy resources.