Author: Lan, Xiao; Wang, Haijuan; Sun, Zhanhao; Jiang, Xunyong

Institute: Key Laboratory of Display Materials and Photovoltaic Devices, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Photovoltaic Materials and Devices, China; National Experimental Functional Materials Training Demonstration Center, China; School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University of Technology, Tianjin, China

Al–Cu–Fe quasicrystals are a promising material as an anode for lithium-ion batteries. Lithium-ion batteries have long been an integral part of our daily lives, providing power for a variety of devices, from mobile phones to electric vehicles. However, battery developers are always looking for new materials and technologies to improve their energy capacity, stability and safety.

Quasicrystals are a specific structure that has a specific arrangement of atoms that behaves like a crystal in some aspects, although it is amorphous in nature. The combination of aluminum, copper and iron in Al–Cu–Fe quasicrystals makes them especially interesting for use in batteries.

The use of Al–Cu–Fe quasicrystals as anode promises to improve several important characteristics of lithium-ion batteries. Firstly, this material has greater capacity and ability to store energy compared to traditional graphite anodes. This allows you to increase the energy density of batteries, which is especially important for devices with limited space, such as smartphones or laptops.

Secondly, Al–Cu–Fe quasicrystals are highly stable and durable. They are able to withstand repeated charging and discharging cycles, which can significantly extend the life of the batteries. Moreover, this anode is not subject to the “lithium metal forming” effect, which can lead to the formation of long-lived plaques on the anode surface and ultimately reduce its performance.

Finally, Al–Cu–Fe quasicrystals also have high safety. They have low sensitivity to heat and mechanical damage, which reduces the risk of thermal instability and short circuits, which can lead to fire or explosion of the battery.

The use of Al–Cu–Fe quasicrystals as an anode for lithium-ion batteries is a promising prospect. This material has high energy capacity, stability and safety, which could lead to the development of more efficient and durable batteries with increased operating time and safety of use.