| abstract |
Examples of electrochemical electrode active materials, electrodes using such materials, and methods for making such electrodes are provided. The electrochemical electrode active material may include a high surface area template containing a metal suicide and a layer of a high capacity active material deposited on the template. The template may serve as a mechanical support for the electrical conductor between the active material and / or the active material and, for example, the substrate. Because of the high surface area of the template, even a thin active material layer can provide sufficient electrode material and sufficient electrode capacity per surface area accordingly. Thus, the thickness of the active material layer can be kept below the breakdown threshold to preserve structural integrity during battery cycling. Also, the thickness and / or composition of the active layer can be specifically profiled to reduce swelling near the substrate interface and preserve this interface connection. |