Silicon Nanoparticles/Carbon Composites for Lithium-Ion Battery

Silicon is expected to replace graphite as the next-generation anode material for lithium-ion batteries because of its high theoretical specific capacity. But the huge volume expansion (similar to 300%) of silicon during lithiation/delithiation process will cause active substance pulverization and loss contact with current collector, and continuous formation of solid electrolyte layer will further result in irreversible capacity fading. It has been demonstrated that nanocrystallization and carbon coating are effective ways to overcome these problems. In this paper, the mechanism of capacity fading of silicon is introduced, and the latest research on the synthesis of Si nanoparticles and carbon composites is reviewed, mainly including coating, core-shell and embeded silicon/carbon anode materials. The core-shell and embedded type are specifically reviewed. Finally the problems of the Si nanoparticles/carbon composites are analyzed and the prospects for research are prospected.