Nano-/Microstructured Si/C Composite with High Tap Density as an Anode Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries

Nanostructured Si materials are plagued by having a limited electrochemical performance and low tap density. Hence, we synthesized a nano-/microstructured Si/C composite with Si nanoparticles uniformly embedded into a carbon matrix, which had a tap density 5.3 times higher than that of Si nanoparticles. The nano-/microstructured Si/C composite shows a superior structural stability, which ensures a long cycle life with a capacity of 600mAhg^-1 after 1000 cycles at 420mAg^-1. Moreover, the carbon matrix can provide three-dimensional electron-transfer pathways for Si nanoparticles to improve the electronic conductivity. Therefore, the Si/C composite anode material also exhibits an outstanding rate capability, which can still deliver a capacity of 510mAhg^-1 at 5C. Thus, the nano-/microstructured Si/C composite with a high tap density possesses great potential in view of practical applications.

Duke Scholars

Author Jie Liu Chemistry