Most smartphone owners would jump at longer lasting batteries that charge faster too. Having phones die on us in the middle of conversations is hardly conducive to communication. Until we find ways to miniaturize lead-acid technology – and it may come – we must explore alternative technologies. A new silicon battery solution could be the quick fix we need.
Why Graphite is Fading From the Battery Stage
Most lithium-ion batteries in smartphones use anodes made from graphite. However, their ions have a tough old time shuttling between cathodes and anodes.
Anodes made from slippery silicon have become an increasingly attractive alternative. But silicon has been persistently unstable to date. Hence the ongoing search for new silicon battery anode designs.
Progress Towards New Silicon Battery Anodes
Researchers at University of California Riverside seem to be coming closer to a resolution for unstable silicon. They discovered the current size of silicon particles in anodes expand, contract, and then crack as ions come and go.
Then they found a way to make nano-silicon particles to allow the ions to slip in and out. They are hoping this new silicon battery technology could lead to smaller batteries. Or standard-sized ones producing more power. This has wonderful potential for green technology. Because smaller, more powerful batteries would have a great future for solar panels and electric vehicles.
How This Takes Us Closer to Renewable Batteries
The same researchers at the University of California Riverside have also found a way to obtain their silicon from old glass bottles. First they crush them and grind them into powder. Then they reduce them down to nano-silicon particles. Finally, they apply a carbon coating to toughen them up.
They say one glass bottle makes enough silicon for hundreds of coin cell batteries. We wonder how many old bottles are waiting to become new silicon battery anodes. What a wonderful way to clear old dumps of glass.
Related
Making Anodes from Silicon Scrap
Battery Intercalation & How It Works
Preview Image: Green Bottles
