PUBLISHER: SNE Research | PRODUCT CODE: 1443437
PUBLISHER: SNE Research | PRODUCT CODE: 1443437
The anode material for lithium-ion batteries has predominantly been carbon-based to date. In the early stages, amorphous carbon materials were widely used, but presently, natural and synthetic graphite are the primary choices. Recently, there has been active consideration of new anode materials, particularly those centered around silicon (Si), to overcome the theoretical capacity limits of graphite materials and develop materials with excellent electrochemical reaction potential and extended lifespan. The demand for high-capacity anode materials has been increasing, particularly in the market for large-scale batteries used in electric vehicles and energy storage systems. While carbon and graphite-based anode materials were traditionally prevalent, there is a growing focus, especially within the industry, on silicon-based anode materials, which are metal composites. The competition to secure these materials has intensified as the need for high-capacity anode rises. In this context, there is a continual increase in new entrants developing and manufacturing silicon-based anode materials.
As of early 2020, silicon-based high-capacity materials were primarily developed by only 10-20 companies. However, the current landscape shows that over 60 companies are actively engaged in the development and preparation for mass production of silicon-based materials. Silicon-based materials are essential for the development of high-capacity batteries to address the range limitations of electric vehicles and meet the demand for fast-charging capabilities. Electric vehicle OEMs and battery companies anticipate a projected annual growth rate of 30% for silicon anode materials until 2035. The market share of silicon anode materials in the overall anode material market is expected to expand from 1% in 2019 to 7% in 2030 and further to 10% by 2035.
In addition to carbon-based and graphite-based materials, Si-C composite, Si-alloy, and SiOx are representative high-capacity anode materials for lithium-ion batteries. Among these, SiOx and Si-alloy are the closest to commercialization, with some battery manufacturers actively developing high-capacity batteries by incorporating them. However, challenges such as lifespan and volume expansion (swelling) persist, prompting ongoing efforts to address these issues. In the realm of silicon (Si)-based anodes, recent announcements of related technological developments have been made by both industry and academia. Anode material companies are also concentrating on new technology development, fostering expectations for imminent commercialization.
This report serves as a technical document focusing on recent developments in the anode material market for lithium-ion batteries used in xEV (electric vehicles), ESS (energy storage systems), and IT applications. Specifically, it delves into the technological advancements and performance enhancements in Si-based anode development for high-capacity batteries. The report provides an overview of the latest developments in Si-based high-capacity anode materials (Si-alloy, SiOx, Si-C composite) by both industry and academia. It also examines the current status and challenges associated with batteries incorporating these materials, aiming to offer insights and potential solutions for future developments in high-capacity/high-output battery technologies.