Scalable solvent-free preparation of micro silicon based composite anodes with dual interface protections for stable cycling lithium-ion batteries

Abstract

Balancing the high specific capacity and cycling durability of silicon based composite anodes is one of the key focuses in developing the next generation of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) with high-energy density. The selections of micro silicon raw materials and carbon material coating strategies are beneficial for reducing costs and large-scale preparation. However, the simplification of the preparation process remains a significant challenge, particularly how to avoid the use of solvents. Herein, we reported a preparation strategy with the hot pressing using micro silicon, asphalts and graphite as raw materials, where asphalts can not only effectively encapsulate micro silicon without any solvents, but also provide dual interface protections combined with graphite. The as-prepared μmSi@C/G-1 delivers enhanced Li⁺ storage performance, which exhibits discharge capacities of 497 mAh g⁻¹ at 0.2 A g⁻¹ after 100 cycles and 430 mAh g⁻¹ at 0.5 A g⁻¹ after 300 cycles, suggesting good rate, capacity and cycling durability.