Fe/Si multi-layer thin film anodes for lithium rechargeable thin film batteries

Fe/Si multi-layer thin films were prepared by alternate deposition using an electron-beam evaporation method. Electrochemical results through galvanostatic charge-discharge experiments are presented. It appears that the volumetric expansion of silicon during cycling can be effectively suppressed by forming a Fe layer between Si layers. The electrochemical characteristics of Fe/Si multi-layer film electrode can be controlled by the thickness, and number of stacked Si layers, and post-annealing. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.