Application of nanotechnology in the negative electrode of Si-based lithium-ion batteries

Modern electronics and electric cars frequently employ lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) because of their excellent energy density, safety, and environmental friendliness. The anode of LIBs is typically composed of carbon. Nevertheless, it loses a lot of energy when charging and draining. Lithium metal precipitates quickly from the surface of carbon electrodes and forms dendrites. These can pass through the diaphragm and cause short circuits inside the battery, posing a public safety risk. The advantages of the silicon-based anode are excellent safety, low operating voltage, and high theoretical specific capacity. It is among the most critical potential materials for high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries. However, its drawbacks, such as volume expansion and poor electrical conductivity, limit the development of LIBs. In recent years, the emergence of nanotechnology has well solved these problems. This paper first explains how silicon-based lithium-ion batteries work and summarizes the challenges of silicon-based anodes. Then, it explores the application of nanotechnology in silicon-based anode, including different dimensions of silicon nanomaterials. After the group, the paper analyzes the shortcomings of current research and proposes future directions.