Graphene-Silicon Oxide Composite for Stable Li-Ion Electrodes

Solution Overview

Problem

Current lithium ion batteries face challenges in suppressing side reactions between electrode active materials and electrolytes, adhesion between electrode active materials and coatings, and conductivity, leading to reduced performance and lifespan.

Innovation Solution

A composite is developed comprising silicon oxide (SiO2 or SiOx with 0<x<2) embedded in a graphene matrix, which is prepared through thermal treatment of a reaction gas containing a carbon source, enhancing the electrochemical properties and conductivity of electrodes.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Strength

If surface coating of electrode active materials is applied, then adhesion between electrode active material and coating material is improved, but side reaction between electrode active material and electrolyte is not sufficiently suppressed

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadhesion between electrode active material and coating materialVSAvoidsuppression of side reaction between electrode active material and electrolyte

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a composite coating structure consisting of a first coating layer and a second coating layer with different material compositions and functions. The first coating layer (e.g., silicon oxide) provides strong adhesion to the electrode active material, while the second coating layer (e.g., carbon-containing coating layer) provides effective suppression of side reactions with the electrolyte. This multi-layer composite approach allows each layer to optimize its specific function without compromising the other.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

2Strength

If coating material is applied to electrode active material, then adhesion is improved, but electrode conductivity is not sufficiently maintained

Engineering Contradiction:

Improveadhesion between electrode active material and coating materialVSAvoidelectrode conductivity

Core Design Contradiction:

StrengthVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent applies different material properties to different regions/layers of the coating structure. The first coating layer uses materials with high adhesion properties (e.g., silicon oxide) that are in direct contact with the electrode active material, while the second coating layer uses conductive materials (e.g., carbon-containing materials) that prioritize electrical conductivity. This localized optimization of material properties ensures both adhesion and conductivity requirements are met in their respective functional zones.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #3Local quality

3Ease of manufacture

If known coating materials are used, then manufacturing process is simple, but side reaction suppression, adhesion, and conductivity are not simultaneously satisfied

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvecoating process simplicityVSAvoidcomprehensive performance (side reaction suppression, adhesion, conductivity)

Core Design Contradiction:

Ease of manufactureVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent employs a composite coating structure consisting of a first coating layer and a second coating layer with different material compositions and functions. The first coating layer (e.g., silicon oxide) provides strong adhesion to the electrode active material, while the second coating layer (e.g., carbon-containing coating layer) provides effective suppression of side reactions with the electrolyte. This multi-layer composite approach allows each layer to optimize its specific function without compromising the other.

Inventive Principle:

Principle #40Composite materials

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

The composite improves the charge-discharge characteristics, conductivity, and cycle stability of lithium batteries by reducing side reactions and enhancing the binding strength between electrode materials, resulting in higher energy density and longer lifespan.

Implementation Method 1

contacting a reaction gas including a carbon source gas and a silicon oxide of the formula SiOx wherein 0<x<2; thermally treating the reaction gas-contacted silicon oxide to prepare the composite

Methodology Applied

Scientific EffectChemical Vapour Deposition: Chemical Vapour Deposition

Data Source

PatentUS11870060B2Composite, electrochemical active material composite using the composite, electrode including the composite or electrochemical active material composite, lithium battery including the electrode, field emission device including the composite, biosensor including the composite, semiconductor device including the composite, and thermoelectric device including the composite

Publication Date: 2024.01.09 SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS CO LTD

AI summary

A composite including: at least one selected from a silicon oxide of the formula SiO2 and a silicon oxide of the formula SiOx wherein 0<x<2; and graphene, wherein the silicon oxide is disposed in a graphene matrix.