LG Energy Solution has successfully developed key technology in the silicon anode materials field, which is considered core technology in the next-generation battery market, in collaboration with Yonsei University.
LG Energy Solution noted on the 10th that it succeeded in developing technology to improve the degradation of silicon anode materials, which expand in volume during charge and discharge, in joint research with Professors Lee Sang-young and Lee Yong-min from the Department of Chemical and Biological Engineering at Yonsei University.
The results of this research were published in one of the world's leading scientific journals, Nature Communications, under the title 'Mechanical damage of lithium-ion battery separators due to silicon anode degradation.'
Silicon is gaining attention as a representative next-generation material in the anode materials market. Compared to graphite, a widely used anode material, it can improve energy density by more than 10 times, which not only increases the driving range of electric vehicles but is also advantageous for fast-charging designs. Its economic and eco-friendly properties are additional benefits.
However, the volume expansion during battery charging and discharging has posed many difficulties for practical applications. There were limitations such as the degradation of cell structure or negative impacts on the separator due to volume changes, making it difficult to secure the battery's lifespan and capacity.
The research team found solutions to the problems by designing high-strength separators based on inorganic materials. Previously, efforts were only made to improve the silicon anode material to mitigate degradation, but now, the combination of separators and other materials has provided clues to solving the issues from an overall battery system perspective.
In fact, batteries that applied this improved material technology showed a capacity retention rate of over 88% even after undergoing 400 cycles of fast charging and discharging.
Kim Je-young, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of LG Energy Solution, said, 'We plan to lead the global market in the next-generation battery field with differentiated technology through an active open innovation strategy, and we will do our best to diversify our product portfolio and create customer value.'