Abstract
Graphite (372 mAh/g) powder is currently used as Li-battery anode material but urgent need exists to replace it with materials with higher capacity, energy and power density. Investigation of Sn (991mAh/g) as an alternative to graphite has been explored through many approaches which has not been able to address the large volume expansion (fabrication related) and performance limitations associated with Sn during cycling1,2. In this work, by using electroless deposition method, we demonstrate that a new approach of fabricating high performing Cu-Sn alloy for lithium battery anode with high capacity, power density and long cycle life is feasible. In our approach, Cu was electrolessly deposited on carbon cloth followed by immersion of the Cu-plated cloth in a Sn bath for partial displacement of the Cu and subsequent formation of Cu-Sn alloy. The use of a woven fabric as a substrate provides pathways for flow of electrons while its pores accommodate the expansion of tin with minimal performance loss. Our electroless approach is also applicable for graphite particles. The Cu-Sn alloy deposited on carbon over various times was used in Coin cell with Li metal as counter electrode. The open circuit voltage of freshly fabricated cell varied from 2.02V (for pristine carbon cloth) to 3V (for Cu-Sn plated carbon cloth). First cycle specific discharge capacity from open circuit voltage to 0.007V for our new electrodes varied between 561 mAh/g to 656 mAh/g based on the mass of Cu-Sn deposited on the cloth. The results of the cell’s performance evaluation as a function of Sn Cu displacement time will be presented. Figure 1
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.