Silicon-carbon batteries are a class of lithium-ion batteries, that use a unique material for their anode. This composite is a blend of silicon and carbon, instead of the usual graphite. We discuss the developing use of silicon carbon batteries in smartphones, as we ponder which manufacturers will seize on the idea first.
Why Combine Carbon and Silicon in Batteries?
Graphite’s layered carbon assures a stable battery anode, although its theoretical capacity is less than ideal. Silicon, on the other hand, has very high capacity for storing energy. It therefore makes sense to get the ‘best of both worlds’ by combining the two materials.
Breaking silicon’s role down in more detail, we find that silicon’s capacity is ten times that of graphite. This means it can hold far more lithium ions, potentially making for a more powerful battery. However, would that be as simple in practice …
Resolving the Structural Weaknesses of Silicon
Silicon expands quite considerably, as it absorbs lithium ions during charging. This expansion causes silicon – which is a metal – to crack and start to break up. The disintegrating silicon then absorbs some of the liquid electrolyte. This shortens battery life.
Combining silicon with far more stable graphite therefore makes sense. It brings us closer to seeing silicon carbon batteries in smartphones for these reasons:
- Combining silicon with graphite, or graphene, has a cushioning effect that limits expansion and contraction during cycling.
- The composite material improves the battery’s electrical conductivity, while insulating the silicon from the electrolyte.
These advantages come together to produce a thinner lithium-ion battery variety, with distinct potential advantages for smart phones.
The Rise of Silicon Carbon Batteries in Smartphones
Several Chinese smartphone manufacturers are already pioneering silicon carbon batteries in smartphones, according to Web Pro News We understand that these products have slimmer batteries, with superior energy density, faster charging, and better battery life.
The Washington Post believes that established smartphone battery makers – including Apple and Samsung – are biding their time for now. Perhaps they decided to wait for proof that silicon carbon batteries in smartphones work flawlessly, before they go ahead.
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