Nanostructured anode material for Li-ion battery obtained by galvanic process

Abstract

This work focused on the synthesis and characterization of nanostructured lead hydroxide chloride (PbOHCl) that is an innovative anode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). In particular, we have obtained nanostructures of mixed PbOHCl and lead metal, directly into the pores of a commercially available alumina membrane, acting as template. The process was based on galvanic displacement reaction that was carried out in a two-compartment electrochemical cell without the use of an external power supply. This simple and cheap procedure gives regular array of Pb/PbOHCl composite nanowires. To obtain nanostructured electrodes is a significant result because, it's well known that nanostructures have a variety of exceptional properties for Li-ion batteries applications such as high surface area, low diffusion path and good dimensional stability. This last property is fundamental because the active material of Li-ion battery are subject to very high strains due to volume change that occurs during charge/discharge cycles. In addition, the presence of lead creates a conductive network that reduces the resistivity of PbOHCl electrode.