Rational design of double carbon-coated SiOx/C/MWCNTs with hierarchical structure for enhanced lithium storage
摘要
SiOx has gained considerable attention as anode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to its impressive specific capacity and favorable economic returns. However, volumetric expansion and low electrical conductivity remain the primary obstacles to its further development. In this work, multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and asphalt are used as carbon precursors to synthesize three-dimensional (3D) networked SiOx/C/MWCNTs composites by using the spray drying, freeze drying and carbonization techniques. In this structure, one end of the MWCNTs is embedded within the SiOx/C matrix, which significantly accelerates electron transport. The other end intertwines and weaves with each other, constructing a unique self-supporting interconnected MWCNT network on the surface of SiOx/C. This MWCNT network, in conjunction with the asphalt-derived carbon layer, collectively imparts exceptional mechanical strength to the composite, effectively mitigating the volume expansion effects of SiOx during cycling. The initial reversible capacity of as-prepared SiOx/C/MWCNTs can reach up to 1439 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1, and its capacity remains at 741 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles. When at a high current density of 1 A g−1, its capacity still remains at 462 mAh g−1 after 1000 cycles. This work supports the successful integration of a dual-carbon-layer structure into silicon-based materials.
Graphical abstractSiOx/C/MWCNTs with a double carbon-layer can effectively enhance structural stability and electronic conductivity.