Graphene could massively boost performance of lithium-ion batteries, but challenges still exist

Lithium-ion batteries are the most widely used technology for electrochemical energy storage. Graphene, in particular, possesses unique electronic, mechanical and chemical properties that make it a promising candidate for enhancing the performance of lithium-ion batteries. These properties could enable it to replace graphite, another carbon modification, in the anode of lithium-ion batteries.

However, despite significant technological advances, the major breakthrough has yet to arrive for graphene-based batteries. Graphene has the potential to greatly increase the energy density of batteries; studies show that adding graphene to silicon-carbon composites could improve energy density by more than 30%. The material also offers the promise of faster charge times and superior fast-charging capabilities for lithium-ion batteries.

Despite sustained interest in graphene-based solutions within the battery industry, Maximilian Stephan, one of the authors, emphasises the need to establish a stable and adequate supply chain first. At the moment, no cost-effective manufacturing process exists for such graphene batteries, and graphene itself remains expensive. Nonetheless, the authors of the review entitled “Graphene Roadmap Briefs (No. 4): innovation prospects for Li-ion batteries” from Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research (ISI) believe graphene still has a chance at commercial success in the battery market.

Many companies and start-ups are exploring innovative graphene production methods using different approaches. For instance, some manufacturers use high-purity graphene to justify the higher prices of potential high-end batteries, whilst others try to develop affordable industrial-scale production methods for this type of battery. These advancements in materials research and manufacturing could one day make graphene a key component in batteries.