Lignin-based high performance li-ion anode materials synthesized from low-cost renewable resources

This work combines unique capabilities at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and expertise to develop a transformational anode material with tunable electrochemical performance. Not only is this new material a complete redesign of the anode that acts as current collector and lithium insertion material (eliminating the extra mass and expense of inactive materials in conventional designs), but it is also made from low-cost, renewable resources with an approach that leverages advanced carbon fiber technologies at ORNL. Lignin-based carbon fibers (LCFs) exhibit controllable turbostratic disorder, which distinguishes them from typical carbon fibers and conventional anode material. Additionally, via the synergistic application of technologies unique to ORNL in advanced processing and characterization, we control the stabilization and carbonization of lignin to tailor the electrochemical performance of the anode material. Various aspect ratio fibers are synthesized conventionally and under high magnetic fields to manage the surface to bulk ratios and mechanical strength along with interfacial and transport properties through structural control. A prototypical LCF battery is produced, while the strong neutron scattering contrast between lithium and carbon will facilitate in situ fundamental investigations of the insertion mechanisms to maximize performance.