Northwestern researchers have developed a novel technique to substantially increase the lithium (Li) ion capacity of silicon carbide (SiC) via graphitization in ultra-high vacuum. SiC is widely regarded to have little to no Li ion capacity, rendering it ineffective as a Li ion battery anode. The Li capacity of graphitized SiC, however, is estimated to be twice that of graphite, which is the most common Li-ion battery anode. Compared to current battery technology that employs graphite anodes and LiCoO2 cathodes, the increased capacity of graphitized SiC could reduce the weight of the combined cathode and anode by 16%. Furthermore, in emerging battery technologies such as Li-air, the total weight reduction could be 50% or more.

• Reduced weight of batteries
• Increased capacity

High Performance Lithium Ion Batteries: e.g. portable electronics, electric vehicles

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