Multi-Layer Silicon-Graphite Anode Balancing Adhesion and Fast Charging

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Solution Overview

Problem

Lithium secondary batteries face limitations in thermal stability and quick charging characteristics due to the use of graphite-based anodes, which hinder their performance in electric vehicles and mobile devices.

Innovation Solution

A multi-layered anode structure is introduced, comprising a first layer with a mixture of natural and artificial graphite and a second layer containing a silicon-based compound, optimized in specific weight ratios and binder content, to enhance adhesion and reaction efficiency.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If natural graphite is used in the anode, then adhesion to current collector is improved, but quick charging performance deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
ImproveadhesionVSAvoidquick charging performance
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The anode is divided into two distinct layers: a first anode active material layer containing natural graphite and artificial graphite for adhesion, and a second anode active material layer containing silicon-based compound and artificial graphite for quick charging performance. This segmentation allows each layer to optimize for its specific function without compromising the other.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

Different regions of the anode are assigned different material compositions tailored to their functional requirements. The first layer near the current collector uses natural graphite for adhesion, while the second layer uses silicon-based compound for enhanced charging performance, creating local optimization of properties throughout the anode structure.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

2Reliability

If graphite-based anode is used, then electrochemical reaction potential close to lithium metal is achieved, but thermal stability is insufficient

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveelectrochemical reaction potentialVSAvoidthermal stability
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSTemperature

Solution Approach 1:

The anode employs a composite structure combining graphite-based materials (for electrochemical properties) with silicon-based compounds (for thermal stability). This composite approach integrates the advantages of different material systems to simultaneously achieve desirable electrochemical performance and thermal stability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #40Composite materials

3Reliability

If multi-layered electrode structure is introduced, then adhesion and output characteristics are improved, but device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadhesion and output characteristicsVSAvoidelectrode structure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The electrode is segmented into two functional layers with distinct material compositions and roles. This segmentation achieves improved adhesion and output characteristics while maintaining relatively simple manufacturing processes and structure, balancing performance improvement with complexity management.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This configuration improves thermal stability and quick charging capabilities of lithium secondary batteries by optimizing the anode material composition and structure, leading to better performance and lifespan characteristics.

Implementation Method 1

reaction reversibility with lithium ions should be high

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLithium ion intercalation:

Implementation Method 2

a diffusion rate of lithium ions in the active material should be fast

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLithium ion diffusion: Diffusion

Implementation Method 3

Considering excellent adhesion of natural graphite

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectAdhesion: Adhesive

Data Source

PatentUS11936037B2Multi-layered anode containing silicon-based compound and lithium secondary battery including the same
Publication Date: 2024.03.19 LG ENERGY SOLUTION LTD

AI summary

The present disclosure relates to an anode for a lithium secondary battery and a lithium secondary battery including the same, wherein the anode includes a first anode active material layer formed on at least one surface of the anode current collector, wherein the first anode active material layer contains a mixture of natural graphite and artificial graphite as the anode active material and a first binder; a second anode active material layer formed on the first anode active material layer, wherein the second anode active material layer contains a mixture of artificial graphite and a silicon-based compound as the anode active material and a second binder; and wherein a weight ratio of the first binder and the second binder is 1 to 2:1.