A three-dimensional printed Si/rGO anode for flexible Li-ion batteries

Abstract

Si-based electrodes are considered as the most promising anodes for next generation lithium-ion batteries because of their ultrahigh theoretical capacity. However, the huge volume change of silicon during repeated alloying and dealloying reactions with lithium significantly hinders the application of Si-based materials. Here, we synthesized a 3D-printed silicon/reduced graphene oxide (Si/rGO) anode with a porous grid-like structure as a freestanding anode for flexible pouch cells, which provides space for the alloying reaction and reduces the pulverization of the electrode. The space from the grid-like structure could also accelerate the diffusion of lithium ions, ensuring more effective reactions between the Si anode materials and lithium ions. The flexible rGO framework not only imparts excellent electrical conductivity, but also alleviates the expansion of Si nanoparticles in the 3D-printed Si/rGO anode. With such a superior structure, the 3D-printed Si/rGO anode exhibits better electrochemical performance than conventional Si/rGO film anodes in half and full cell configurations. The outstanding structure, combined with the high electrochemical performance and flexibility of the pouch cell, makes our 3D-printed Si/rGO a promising anode for wearable electronic energy storage applications.