Carbon Nanofiber Reinforced Si Nanowire Li-Ion Battery Anodes

There is a strong need to develop low cost, high energy and power capacity electrode materials for high performance Li-ion battery applications. Collaborating with leading nanomaterials research institutions, in this program, NanoGreen Solutions proposes an innovative CNF reinforced SiNW Li-ion battery anode nano-composite with unprecedented performance. The embedded CNF networks will not only enhance the structural integrity of weaken SiNWs upon the Lithium insertion/extraction cycles, but also increase the electrical conductivity of the silicon nanowire anode. The improved mechanical robustness and electrical conductivity will substantially suppress capacity fade rate, increase charge/discharge charge rate, and eliminate potential safety problem caused by joule heat. The proposed nanostructured anode presents a promising approach to realize a new generation electricity storage system for military and commercial electric vehicle applications. NanoGreen Solutions will demonstrate the feasibility of this innovative approach in Phase I.