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Model Ge microstructures as anodes for Li-ion batteries

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Abstract

We examine the properties of microstructured Ge electrodes for Li-ion battery applications. Model-microfabricated single-crystalline Ge electrode structures are used to investigate the effects of Cu coating and partial discharging on cycle life. Results show that the Ge microstructures insert Li more isotropically than do comparable ones comprised of Si. A model Ge microbar electrode with a Cu coating is capable of 95 % coulombic efficiency after 40 cycles when the amount of charge is limited. The microstructured Ge electrode is found to exhibit poor performance at higher delithiation rates (above C/5) relative to microstructured Si electrodes. These results provide an understanding of the effects of electrochemical processes on model-microstructured Ge electrodes which may ultimately aid in the development of advanced anodes for Li-ion batteries.

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Acknowledgments

Microfabrication and electron microscopy was carried out in part in the Frederick Seitz Materials Research Laboratory Central Facilities, University of Illinois. Financial support from the U.S. Department of Energy is gratefully acknowledged. This work is supported by the Center for Electrical Energy Storage: Tailored Interfaces, an Energy Frontier Research Center funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Science, Office of Basic Energy Sciences.

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Correspondence to Andrew A. Gewirth.

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This study is dedicated to Prof. Al Bard on the occasion of his 80th birthday.

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Long, B.R., Goldman, J.L., Nuzzo, R.G. et al. Model Ge microstructures as anodes for Li-ion batteries. J Solid State Electrochem 17, 3015–3020 (2013). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10008-013-2148-6

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10008-013-2148-6

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