The Rechargeability of Silicon-Air Batteries
Abstract
This project aimed to investigate silicon-air batteries as a rechargeable power source of high energy density. Si-air batteries are an attractive possibility due to high charge capacity (approximately 4 times higher than conventional Zn-air, and nearly that of Li-air) with less safety and environmental concerns. Studies of Si-air electrochemical cells using both liquid room-temperature ionic liquid as electrolyte and a gel polymer electrolyte (formed by incorporating an ionic liquid electrolyte into polymeric matrix) were undertaken. Research challenges included overcoming the SiO2 reaction product from clogging the porous carbon-air electrode, reducing the SiO2 byproduct during recharging and redepositing the Si ions in a manner to permit continued operation without loss of energy density, and avoiding the build-up of water byproduct in the electrolyte during reduction during recharge phase. This last issue was seen as a critical roadblock for the continued development at this time, although production of H2O during operation could make an Si-air electrochemical cell a source of water for other applications.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA570671
Entities
People
- Yair Ein-eli