Graphite Anode Battery
A graphite anode battery has been in production for many years. However, it has been known to generate flammable gases when used in the production of electric vehicles. Because of the safety risks associated with this material, researchers are now developing new alternatives to replace it in LIBs.
Silicon (Si), MXenes, and carbon based compounds are examples of anode materials with superior performance. The morphology and chemical composition of these anodes are important to the performance of Li-ion batteries.
While these new anodes have good electrical conductivity and hydrophilicity, they still encounter problems such as restacking and a low specific capacity. However, they have an attractive advantage: they are nontoxic and have high power density. In addition, they are able to store energy as well as maintain an excellent cycling stability.
Graphite anodes are manufactured by bonding carbonaceous fillers with carbon-yielding binders. They are then placed in an electric graphite furnace and baked at 1,000 degC. After reheating at 250 degC, they are extruded into rods. During the charging and discharging process, the anode experiences a series of electrochemical reactions.
Anode material degradation can be studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). XRD findings are very helpful in understanding the origins of the mechanical degradation. Additionally, the TEM helps to verify the differences between the graphitic nanoparticles. SEM images show side reaction products that can be caused by the degrading process.
XRD and SEM also provide a window to analyze the interfacial kinetics between the electrolyte and anode. In addition, the XRD results can help to understand the formation of DISs.
