Conformal Deposition of Carbon Particles on Three-Dimensional Microstructures
Background: When working with carbon particles, the traditional manufacturing techniques require preparation of slurries that are afterwards coated onto a surface. With this method, only planar structures (layers) can be created. When three dimensional microstructures are needed, one of the options is micromolding, which usually results in arrayed structures that contain defects in the individual rods due to the difficult deposition of the particles into the micromold, even when using centrifugation. Another possible method is microstamping, in which the three dimensional structures are shaped on the deposited slurries using a microstamp. Again, the final structures more often than not, contain many defects. Technology: University researchers have developed a novel fabrication methodology where it is now possible to obtain high aspect ratio carbon particle-coated structures. The advantages of this new methodology are several. First, enhanced mechanical stability. Carbon particles are supported by a central core of solid (continuous) material that works as a supportive backbone for the entire structure, thereby increasing the cohesion of the entire system.Second, the creation of fractal-like structures is possible. These structures are very advantageous for applications in which mass transport plays an important role. If the entire structure is made of carbon particles, the contacts between the inside particles increase the system's overall losses. Fractal structures, on the other hand, are an optimal geometry for minimizing the work lost due to the transfer network while maximizing the effective surface area. Application: One of the most promising applications for this invention is in lithium-ion secondary batteries. Using the proposed fabrication methods will enable increasing the amount of carbon particles per unit area, thereby enhancing the specific capacity of the battery. Both mass transport capability and total carbon area are kept intact.
Type of Offer: Licensing
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