Rechargeable all-solid-state tin ion battery in a low-temperature environment

Abstract

In this study, a Sn–7Mg alloy foil anode, a magnesium silicate electrolyte, and a Sn–40Cu alloy film cathode were fabricated and incorporated into an all-solid-state battery; then, the influence of operating temperature on the charge–discharge cycle characteristics was investigated. An intermetallic compound (Cu6Sn5) formed through metallurgy and heat treatment aided in suppressing the volume expansion of the electrode material. The results revealed that, when operated at room temperature, the battery exhibited the optimal charge–discharge cycle performance. Although the battery exhibited decreased capacity at a low temperature (−15 ​°C), its cycling stability remained applicable. By contrast, at a high temperature (55 ​°C), the battery had only a few charge–discharge cycles due to the escape of the interlayer water molecules form the electrolyte structure. Thus, this all-solid-state Sn battery is environmentally friendly and non-toxic, exhibits suitable capacity and stability, and shows potential for low-temperature energy storage applications.