Journal Article

PUBDB-2025-04073

http://join2-wiki.gsi.de/foswiki/pub/Main/Artwork/join2_logo100x88.png Unlocking the Electrochemical Activation of Diatomaceous Earth $SiO_2$ Anodes for Next‐Generation Li‐Ion Batteries

Hua, W. (First author)Extern* ; Vullum, P. E. ; Hjelseng, K. N. ; Hamonnet, J. ; Alonso-Sánchez, P. ; Zhu, J.Extern* ; Hegedues, Z.DESY* ; Zuazo, J. R. ; Cova, F.Extern* ; Svensson, A. M.Extern* ; Blanco, M. (Corresponding author)Extern*

2025
Wiley Hoboken

This record in other databases:  

Please use a persistent id in citations: doi:10.1002/eem2.70074  doi:10.3204/PUBDB-2025-04073

Abstract: Silica (SiO2) anodes are promising candidates for enhancing the energy density of next-generation Li-ion batteries, offering a compelling combination of high storage capacity, stable cycling performance, low cost, and sustainability. This performance stems from SiO2 unique lithiation mechanism, which involves its conversion to electroactive silicon (Si) and electrochemically inactive species. However, widespread adoption of SiO2 anodes is hindered by their slow initial lithiation. To address this, research has focused on developing electrochemical “activation protocols” that involve prolonged low-potential holding steps to promote SiO2 conversion. Despite these efforts, the complex and multi-pathway nature of SiO2 lithiation process remains poorly understood, impeding the rational design of effective activation strategies. By introducing a multi-probe characterization approach, this study reveals that, contrary to the previously proposed reaction mechanism of SiO2 anodes, the lithiation process initiates at low potentials with the direct formation of Li4SiO4 and LixSi. Electrochemical activation potential was found to significantly influence the degree of conversion, with 10 mV identified as the optimal cut-off potential for maximizing SiO2 utilization. These findings provide key enablers to unlock the full potential of SiO2 anodes for battery technology.

---

Contributing Institute(s):

1. PETRA-D (FS-PETRA-D)
2. DOOR-User (DOOR ; HAS-User)

Research Program(s):

1. 632 - Materials – Quantum, Complex and Functional Materials (POF4-632) (POF4-632)
2. 6G3 - PETRA III (DESY) (POF4-6G3) (POF4-6G3)
3. FS-Proposal: I-20191183 EC (I-20191183-EC) (I-20191183-EC)

Experiment(s):

1. PETRA Beamline P21.2 (PETRA III)

Appears in the scientific report 2025

---

Database coverage:
; ; Clarivate Analytics Master Journal List ; Current Contents - Engineering, Computing and Technology ; DEAL Wiley ; Essential Science Indicators ; IF >= 15 ; JCR ; SCOPUS ; Science Citation Index Expanded ; Web of Science Core Collection

---