Green, Scalable, and Solventless Conversion of Photovoltaic Silicon Waste to High-Performance Lithium-Ion Battery Anodes

Abstract

The recycling and reuse of photovoltaic silicon waste (PVSi) is an important reflection of the green and sustainable science and engineering (GSSE). However, balancing the high added value and the avoidance of secondary environmental pollution of PVSi-based recycling and reuse is still a significant challenge. Herein, we reported an effective, economic, and environmentally friendly strategy for the conversion of PVSi to high-performance lithium-ion battery (LIB) anodes. Different from the traditional preparation method of PVSi composite anodes, we have implemented the hot-pressing method, utilizing PVSi, asphalts, and graphite as the primary ingredients. In this process, asphalts serve the dual purposes of efficiently encapsulating PVSi without the need for solvents and offering comprehensive interface protection when combined with graphite. The synthesized PVSi@C/G-1 demonstrates superior lithium-ion storage capabilities, characterized by discharge capacities of 906 mAh g^–1 at 0.2 A g^–1 after 500 cycles and 899 mAh g^–1 at 0.5 A g^–1 after 900 cycles, indicating excellent rate, capacity, and cycling performances. This simple but effective strategy improves the electrochemical performance of PVSi and avoids secondary environmental pollution, which provides an important reference for the large-scale and green turning waste into treasure of PVSi.