The Need
The rapid growth of electric vehicles and portable electronics demands lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) that support fast charging without compromising cycle life or safety. Silicon anodes offer high theoretical capacity but suffer from severe volume expansion during cycling, leading to mechanical degradation, unstable interfaces, and rapid capacity fade. There is a critical need for anode materials that combine high energy density with structural stability and fast-charging capability.

The Technology
Developed by OSU researchers, this technology presents a novel silicon/reduced graphene oxide (Si/G) nanocomposite anode for LIBs. Silicon nanoparticles are uniformly embedded within a reduced graphene oxide matrix via a hydrothermal process, enhancing dispersion and buffering volume changes. The graphene network provides mechanical support and conductive pathways, significantly improving cycle stability and rate performance. The Si/G anode retains 96.4% of its capacity after 100 cycles and delivers high reversible capacities even at 10C fast-charging rates.

Commercial Applications
• Fast-charging lithium-ion batteries for electric vehicles (EVs)
• High-performance batteries for consumer electronics
• Grid-scale energy storage systems

Benefits/Advantages
• Superior Cycle Life: 96.4% capacity retention after 100 cycles vs. 10.3% for conventional Si anodes.
• Fast-Charging Capability: High capacities maintained at up to 10C rates.
• Enhanced Structural Stability: Graphene matrix mitigates Si volume expansion.
• Improved Conductivity: Facilitates efficient electron and ion transport.
• Scalable Fabrication: Uses aqueous processing and hydrothermal synthesis.

Patent application filed