Silicon (Si) is one of the most promising anode materials for high-energy lithium-ion batteries. However, the widespread application of Si-based anodes is inhibited by large volume change, unstable solid electrolyte interphase, and poor electrical conductivity. During the past decade, significant efforts have been made to overcome these major challenges toward industrial applications. This review summarizes the recent development of microscale Si-based electrodes fabricated by Si microparticles or other industrial bulk materials from the perspective of industrialization. First, the challenges for microscale Si anodes are clarified. Second, structural design strategies of stable micro-sized Si materials are discussed. Third, other critical practical metrics, such as robust binder construction and electrolyte design, are also highlighted. Finally, future trends and perspectives on the commercialization of Si-based anodes are provided. KEYWORDSsilicon, micro-sized particles, lithium-ion batteries, porous structures, polymer binder, electrolyte design Figure 1 Overview of Si-based anodes for LIBs: (a) merits and (b) fundamental challenges. Reproduced with permission from Ref. [16], © Wiley-VCH GmbH 2021.

Electrostatic separation is an effective and environmentally friendly method for recycling waste printed circuit board (PCB) by several kinds of electrostatic separators. However, some notable problems have been detected in its applications and cannot be efficiently resolved by optimizing the separation process. Instead of the separator itself, these problems are mainly caused by some external factors such as the nonconductive powder (NP) and the superficial moisture of feeding granule mixture. These problems finally lead to an inefficient separation. In the present research, the impacts of these external factors were investigated and a robust design was built to optimize the process and to weaken the adverse impact. A most robust parameter setting (25 kv, 80 rpm) was concluded from the experimental design. In addition, some theoretical methods, including cyclone separation, were presented to eliminate these problems substantially. This will contribute to efficient electrostatic separation of waste PCB and make remarkable progress for industrial applications.

The conventional lithium−sulfur battery (LSB) undergoes a "solid−liquid−solid" cathode process during which the intermediate polysulfides dissolve into the electrolyte, leading to a serious "shuttle" reaction and significantly shortened lifespan. Here, we realize a novel "solid → solid" cathode mode for LSBs via a transplantable solid electrolyte interface (SEI). The SEI is in situ formed in a carbonate-based electrolyte with high-concentration dualsalt during the initial discharge process. The solid → solid cathode process does not involve any dissolution of the intermediates; hence, the "shuttle effect" can be totally eliminated. Furthermore, the SEI shows a high electrolyte compatibility and can be transplanted to the conventional carbonate-based/ether-based electrolytes. The sulfur/carbon composite with 65% sulfur delivers a reversible specific capacity of 1009 mA h g −1 and negligible self-discharge. The SEI strategy can successfully break the limitation from the traditional "catholyte" electrode mechanism. Meanwhile, it provides large flexibility for designing high-loading carbon hosts and selecting an electrolyte for high-performance LSBs.