Current-Collector-Free Single-Layer Anode for Higher Energy Density
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current Li-ion batteries are heavy and voluminous due to the use of additional current collectors, which increases manufacturing complexity and reduces energy density.
Innovation Solution
A single-layer anode is developed without a current collector, using active materials like carbon, silicon, and metal oxides that function as both the active material and current collector, simplifying manufacturing and reducing weight and volume.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a current collector is used in the anode, then electrical current can be collected and transported, but the weight and volume of the battery increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the current collector function with the active material by using a conductive carbon matrix that simultaneously collects electrons and hosts lithium storage particles, eliminating the need for separate current collector foils and reducing battery weight
Solution Approach 2:
The carbon-based active material performs multiple functions: it stores lithium ions, conducts electrons, and provides structural support, replacing the traditional separate current collector and active material layers
2Reliability
If a current collector is used in the anode, then electrical current can be collected and transported, but the manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the current collector function with the active material by using a conductive carbon matrix that simultaneously collects electrons and hosts lithium storage particles, eliminating the need for separate current collector foils and reducing battery weight
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts and removes the current collector component from the traditional battery structure, simplifying the manufacturing process by eliminating coating steps and reducing the number of layers that need to be assembled
3Reliability
If a current collector is used in the anode, then electrical current can be collected and transported, but the energy density decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the current collector function with the active material by using a conductive carbon matrix that simultaneously collects electrons and hosts lithium storage particles, eliminating the need for separate current collector foils and reducing battery weight
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the material composition parameters by using high-capacity lithium storage particles (such as silicon or metal oxides) within the carbon matrix, increasing the amount of active material per unit volume and从而提高能量密度
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 single-layer anode design reduces battery weight and volume while maintaining or improving Coulombic Efficiency, leading to increased energy density and simplified manufacturing.
Implementation Method 1
the active material or the composition of active materials functions as a current collector
Implementation Method 2
facilitating lithiation and/or plating
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a secondary cell comprising an anode, a cathode, optionally a separator, and an electrolyte, characterized in that the anode comprises an active material or composition of active materials, wherein at least one active material or composition of active materials functions as a current collector, wherein the active material or composition of active materials comprises carbon, silicon, and/or metal oxide(s), and wherein the anode does not comprise any additional current collector. A vehicle comprising said secondary cell is also claimed.