Brief
KAIST researchers adapt chipmaking methods to improve anode‑free EV batteries
The new copper architecture, coated with MXene, aims to boost energy density without adding weight.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Researchers at South Korea’s KAIST announced a nanofabrication technique that adapts semiconductor manufacturing to improve anode‑free electric‑vehicle batteries. The method, disclosed on September 22, uses a copper current collector patterned with nanoscale tubes and coated with a 10‑nanometre MXene layer to guide lithium deposition and form a stable protective film.
The approach addresses dendrite formation—sharp lithium spikes that can pierce the separator and cause short circuits—by giving lithium more room to spread during charging. In laboratory tests, the MXene‑primed surface promoted a lithium‑fluoride‑rich layer that suppressed unwanted reactions with the electrolyte, extending cycle life without adding excess lithium or thick protective films.
"This study shows how ultrafine fabrication techniques used in semiconductor manufacturing can create both uniform sites for lithium deposition and a stable protective layer without changing the bulk electrolyte formulation or adding excess lithium," said Jinwoo Lee, professor of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering at KAIST, as reported by SciTechDaily.
Lee led the work with fellow KAIST professor Hee‑Tae Jung, alongside researchers from Kyungpook National University and the National NanoFab Center. The team expects the technology to accelerate commercialization of high‑energy anode‑free batteries, which could increase EV range without enlarging or heavy‑ening the pack.
Key facts
- KAIST researchers used semiconductor nanofabrication to pattern copper foil for anode‑free batteries. (scitechdaily.com)
- A 10‑nanometre MXene coating acts as a primer for a lithium‑fluoride protective layer. (scitechdaily.com)
- The technique aims to reduce dendrite growth and improve cycle life without adding excess lithium. (scitechdaily.com)
- Jinwoo Lee and Hee‑Tae Jung led the study with collaborators from Kyungpook National University and the National NanoFab Center. (scitechdaily.com)
Sources
- [1] scitechdaily.com — originally reported as “Researchers Borrow Chipmaking Technology To Build Better EV Batteries”
