Layered Lithium Battery Anode With ALD Protection for Longer Cycle Life
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Solution Overview
Problem
Lithium secondary batteries with carbon-based anodes have limited energy density and discharge capacity, and the use of lithium metal anodes leads to a short lifespan due to complete consumption during charge/discharge processes.
Innovation Solution
An anode structure comprising a current collector, a non-consumable first anode layer with a higher oxidation/reduction potential, a consumable second anode layer, and an inorganic protection layer deposited by atomic layer deposition (ALD) to a thickness of 100 nanometers or less, which prevents side reactions and maintains structural integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If lithium metal is used as an anode to increase energy density, then energy density per unit weight and per unit volume increases to three times that of comparative batteries, but the lifespan becomes short due to complete consumption during charge/discharge processes
Solution Approach 1:
The anode is segmented into multiple layers with different functions: a first anode layer (lithium metal) for high energy density and a second anode layer (carbon-based or alloy) for structural stability and lifespan extension. This segmentation allows each layer to perform its specific function while working together to resolve the contradiction between energy density and lifespan.
Solution Approach 2:
The anode uses a composite structure combining lithium metal with carbon-based materials or alloys. The lithium metal provides high energy density while the carbon-based material or alloy provides structural stability and prevents complete consumption, thereby extending lifespan while maintaining high energy density.
2Duration of action of moving object
If a protection layer is added to prevent side reactions and extend lifespan, then lifespan is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
A protection layer is preliminarily formed on the surface of the lithium metal anode before battery operation. This protection layer prevents side reactions between lithium metal and electrolyte during charge/discharge cycles, extending lifespan without requiring complex external protection systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The protection layer acts as an intermediary between the lithium metal anode and the electrolyte. It allows lithium ion transport while preventing harmful side reactions, thereby extending lifespan with a simple structural addition rather than complex control systems.
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 anode structure extends the lifespan of lithium batteries by ensuring the first anode layer remains intact while the second anode layer is consumed, minimizing side reactions and maintaining performance over repeated charge/discharge cycles.
Implementation Method 1
an inorganic protection layer disposed on the second anode layer, wherein the inorganic protection layer is disposed by atomic layer deposition ('ALD') to a thickness of 100 nanometers (nm) or less
Data Source
AI summary
An anode, a lithium battery including the anode, and a method of preparing the anode. The anode includes a current collector; a first anode layer disposed on the current collector; a second anode layer disposed on the first anode layer; and an inorganic protection layer disposed on the second anode layer, wherein an oxidation/reduction potential of the first anode layer and an oxidation/reduction potential of the second anode layer are different from each other.