Graphite has long been the preferred material for lithium-ion battery anodes, but as demands evolve—such as the need for higher capacity and faster charging speeds in electric vehicle batteries—the search for alternatives to graphite has intensified. Silicon-carbon composites are considered highly promising among these alternatives. Compared to graphite, silicon-carbon composites offer higher theoretical storage capacity, larger volumetric capacity, significantly lower discharge voltage, and lower cost.
According to foreign media reports, German chemical company Evonik has launched Siridion® Black, a silicon-carbon composite material that can be used as a new negative electrode material for lithium-ion batteries. This material increases energy density and improves fast charging capabilities and energy efficiency, making batteries more powerful.
Peter Friesenhahn, Head of Evonik's Silane Business Unit, stated, "The launch of Siridion® Black is a significant milestone in our portfolio strategy. Moving forward, we will strengthen our products in attractive, technology-driven growth markets and strive to be an innovation partner for our customers." This new high-performance material also complements Evonik's range of battery materials. Previously, the company also provided negative electrode active materials and fumed metal oxides for separator coatings.
Dr. Björn Borup, Head of Battery Materials Marketing at Evonik's Silane Business Unit, stated, "Graphite has long been used as the anode material for lithium-ion batteries. However, to increase battery capacity, new materials are needed to enable fast charging. As an additive, Evonik's silicon-carbon composites can be quickly integrated into existing anode materials and production processes, and can be well combined with other battery materials."
The powder is produced via vapor-phase synthesis and consists of numerous isolated, unsintered spherical nanoparticles. Within the amorphous particles, the carbon concentration increases from the inside out, resulting in high stability. Dr. Julia Lyubina, Head of Development and Commercialization of Siridion® Black, stated, "The higher carbon content on the surface provides better protection against oxidation and makes the particles easier to process."
The high-performance anode material was jointly developed by Evonik's R&D and Innovation functions and its silane business unit. These departments collaborated with the University of Duisburg-Essen on this research, aiming to make lithium-ion batteries more powerful. Furthermore, the German Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Energy is providing funding for the project until 2023.
Lyubina stated, "Siridion® Black offers customized solutions, providing battery anode manufacturers and their customers with the necessary flexibility to meet their requirements." Furthermore, manufacturers of wearable or mobile devices may also appreciate this design freedom.
