Affiliation:
1. Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Natural Sciences, University of the Western Cape, Robert Sobukwe Road, Private Bag X17, Cape Town 7535, South Africa
2. Energy Centre, Smart Places Cluster, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Pretoria 0001, South Africa
Abstract
Silicon possesses a 10-fold specific capacity compared to commonly used carbon-based anodes. The volume instability, among other impediments for practical use of silicon anodes, leads to the rapid decay of the capacity because of poor cyclability. Urgent mechanisms are required to improve lithium-ion storage during cycling and prevent volume variation in the silicon structure. Biogenic silicon derived from sugarcane bagasse can be used in nanoelectronic devices. Over the years, electrode materials have been an essential part of battery components. Moreover, electrode materials are favourable for highly portable nanoelectronics, hybrid as well as pure electric vehicles, etc. Furthermore, the biogenic silicon chosen for this study was based on natural abundance, environmental friendliness, and affordability. However, most silicon anodes are hindered by unstable volume expansion, variation in solid electrolyte interface films, and poor electrical conductivity. The focus is on silicon anodes, recent developments, and the potential of biogenic silicon from sugarcane waste, exploring its physicochemical properties to meet the requirements of a suitable anode material.
Funder
National Research Foundation
Eskom