Lithium ion batteries are used in portable electronic devices, power tools, and electric vehicles. Recently, substantial venture capital and private equity investments have been made to introduce new lithium batteries with enhanced energy densities based on silicon nanowires. In this article, patent lawyers Douglas Sharrott and Erin J.D. Austin explore the patent landscape surrounding use of silicon nanowires in energy storage devices. They identify companies developing silicon nanowire technologies for energy storage applications; highlight exemplary patents directed to silicon nanowire structures and production methods as well as patents directed to using silicon nanowires for energy storage; and explore patent infringement issues.
This article originally appeared in volume 12, issue 1 of Nanotechnology Law & Business, www.nanolabweb.com. All rights reserved.