Argonne boosts silicon anode performance in lithium-ion batteries with new electrolyte mixture

Researchers at the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Argonne National Laboratory have developed an electrolyte mixture and additive they claim boosts the energy density of next generation lithium-ion batteries by up to 50%. 

To develop its electrolyte additive the scientists added small amount of a second salt containing doubly or triply charged metal cations magnesium (Mg²+), calcium (Ca²+), zinc (Zn²+), or aluminium (Al³+). 

Image by Argonne National Laboratory: shows charging results in doubly or triply charged metal cations, such as Mg²+ (orange spheres), along with singly charged lithium ions (green spheres) being co-inserted from the electrolyte into the silicon (blue spheres) anode material. This process stabilises the anode, enabling long term cycling of lithium-ion batteries.