On the use of bioprecursors for sustainable silicon-based anodes for Li-ion batteries

Abstract

The growing demand for sustainable and high performance Li-ion batteries has driven research into new bioprecursors for battery components. Among potential candidates for next-generation negative electrodes, silicon stands out due to its high theoretical capacity compared to conventional graphite. However, the challenges associated with silicon, including volume expansion and sustainability concerns, have limited its widespread adoption. In this context, bioprecursors have garnered significant attention as a green and renewable alternative for producing high performance silicon-based anodes. This perspective article explores the potential of bio-based precursors, specifically rice husks, diatom frustules, and other biomass-derived materials, for the development of sustainable silicon anodes for Li-ion batteries. While biowaste-derived silicon materials—such as rice husks—have been widely explored, this work contrasts them with the emerging potential of harnessing the morphological plasticity of diatom microalgae as a novel route to design biosilicas with tunable nanostructures, providing a controlled and sustainable pathway for high-performance Si-based anodes. We discuss the chemical processes, environmental benefits, and future directions for enhancing the performance of Si-based electrodes derived from these natural materials.