In a significant development for the energy storage sector, the Korea Electric Research Institute (KERI) has announced that it is on the brink of mass production of its innovative ‘silicon-graphene composite anode material’ designed for lithium-ion batteries. This advancement, which marks a notable achievement in KERI’s extensive research portfolio, is the result of a successful technology transfer to JNC Materials Co., Ltd., a specialized firm in electric and electronic materials. The transition from research to commercial viability is a testament to the collaborative efforts between KERI and industry partners, showcasing a successful model of technology commercialization in South Korea.
The technology itself aims to enhance the performance of lithium-ion batteries by addressing the limitations of silicon, a material recognized for its high energy density—ten times that of traditional graphite. However, silicon has historically faced challenges, such as significant volume expansion during charge and discharge cycles, leading to a decline in performance and lower electrical conductivity. By integrating graphene, a two-dimensional carbon nanomaterial known for its superior electrical conductivity and electrochemical stability, KERI has developed a composite structure that effectively mitigates these drawbacks. The innovative ‘core-shell’ architecture encapsulates silicon within a protective graphene layer, allowing for substantial improvements in both performance and stability.
To further refine this technology, KERI has pioneered a specialized water-based dispersion technique that enables the production of high-quality graphene in various viscosities, making it compatible with the manufacturing processes for lithium-ion battery anodes. This method has facilitated the scaling up of production, allowing for an increase in silicon content from a mere 5% to an impressive 20%, thereby enhancing the overall capacity and quality of the anode materials. The implications of this advancement are profound; if implemented in electric vehicles, it is estimated that the driving range could potentially increase by over 20%, revolutionizing the industry.
KERI’s collaboration with JNC Materials has extended beyond mere technology transfer. The company has established a state-of-the-art mass production facility in the ‘National Advanced Strategic Industry Battery Specialized Complex’ located in Jecheon, Chungbuk Province. This facility is capable of producing thousands of tons of high-quality graphene, which will be utilized to develop high-performance anode materials. The scale of production is significant, as it could lead to the creation of batteries sufficient for approximately 60,000 electric vehicles or several hundred million smartphones.
Additionally, the technology’s applications stretch beyond electric vehicles. High-capacity and high-performance lithium-ion batteries are crucial for energy storage systems (ESS), advanced AI semiconductors, and server technologies, all of which are pivotal for enhancing South Korea’s competitiveness in the energy and AI sectors.
Dr. Seung-Yeol Jung, head of KERI’s Nano Convergence Research Center, emphasized the importance of this technology, stating that it exemplifies a commercializable solution grounded in high-functionality nanomaterials. He pointed out that the technology has been recognized for its technical completeness and practicality, receiving acknowledgment from both industrial and academic circles. This successful integration of research and commercialization stands as a model for future initiatives within the public research sector.
CEO Chang-Kun Lee of JNC Materials expressed gratitude for KERI’s innovative foundational technology and highlighted the significance of their ongoing collaboration. He reiterated the company’s commitment to contributing to the advancement and technological competitiveness of South Korea’s lithium-ion battery industry.
KERI, a government-funded research institution under the Ministry of Science and ICT, aims to continue its mission of developing essential technologies through collaboration with academia and industry. With aspirations to establish itself as a leading manufacturing base for ‘K-anode materials,’ KERI is poised to play a pivotal role in positioning South Korea at the forefront of the global battery industry. As the nation navigates through the complexities of energy storage technology, the outcomes of this research may hold the key to unlocking new potentials in various high-tech applications, driving innovation and sustainability in the years to come.
[관련기사] https://n.news.naver.com/mnews/article/003/0013452462?sid=102
Leave a Reply