Jet-Printable, Low-Melting-Temperature Ga–xSn Eutectic Composites: Application in All-Solid-State Batteries

Abstract

Low-melting-point Ga–xSn eutectic composites and natural silicate mineral powders were used as the electrode and solid-state electrolyte, respectively, in all-solid-state batteries for green energy storage systems. The influences of the Sn content in the Ga–xSn composite electrode on the electrochemical performance of the batteries were evaluated, and liquid composites with a Sn concentration of up to 30 wt.% demonstrated suitability for electrode fabrication through dip coating. Sodium-enriched silicate was synthesized to serve as the solid-state electrolyte membrane because of the abundance of water molecules in its interlayer structure, enabling ion exchange. The battery capacity increased with the Sn content of the Ga–xSn anode. The formation of intermetallic compounds and oxides (CuGa2, Ga2O3, Cu6Sn5, and SnO2) resulted in a high charge–discharge capacity and stability. The Ga–Sn composite electrode for all-solid-state batteries exhibits a satisfiable capacity and stability and shows potential for jet-printed electrode applications.