Microwave Assisted Synthesis of Silicon-Graphene Composites for High Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries

Purpose and goal:

The aim of the project was to establish a more energy and cost efficient system to process the anode material of Li-ion batteries by establishing a computer-assisted microwave heating to convert the silica powder to the silicon nanoparticles and to establish a complete R & D project.

I this project, we can demonstrate the computer-aided microwave heating system that significantly reduced processing time, making it energy and cost efficient. According to the project´s objective, we can attract new partners and applied for the entire R & D project. Expected results and effects:

PercyRoc and Uppsala University together with MIUN established a controlled microwave heating system that reaches the desired heating temperature of 900C within a few seconds, compared to the few hours required by a traditional heating system. The layout is a system where we can heat the silicon-graphene and PVA mixture in an inert atmosphere. The results of the project have attracted new partner Altris AB as an end user to realize a complete R&D project.

Approach and implementation:

A controlled microwave heating system that reaches satisfactory heating temperature under inert gas was developed. This technology supports the upscaling project to realize high-density silicon / graphite compounds for sodium ion batteries that will be commercialized by Altris.