Graphite–Aluminium Composite Anode for Li-Ion Battery by High Energy Ball Milling

Graphite–30% aluminium composite powder is prepared by high energy ball milling for different time intervals to improve the capacity over the conventionally used natural graphite powder as anode in Li-ion battery. Optimum milling time of 10 h results in higher capacity than either lower or higher milling duration. Initial increase in capacity with milling time is attributed to the reduction in crystallite size and alloying of Al and C. The formation of surface oxide layer on Al particles reduces the conductivity and capacity of the powder milled beyond 10 h. Formation of cracks during charge–discharge cycling of the anode causes fading in the capacity.