Last year, Huawei patented a silicon-carbon composite material and a method for producing it. They plan to use this material in new lithium-ion batteries to extend their life.

According to the description of the patent, we are talking about a durable composite material, which includes a core covered with an alkaline layer. The silicon core is filled with amorphous carbon, while the pore size does not exceed 50 nm.

The patent says that the tiny pore structure of the silicon-carbon composite material effectively reduces the contact area between the silicon material and the electrolyte, which reduces the likelihood of side reactions and prolongs battery life.

At the same time, the graphite skeleton can effectively reduce the volumetric expansion and contraction of the material to improve the structural stability and energy density of the composite material.

How much more efficient such batteries will be is still unknown.