High-Capacity and Highly Reversible Silicon-Tin Hybrid Anode for Solid-State Lithium-Ion Batteries

This study presents a proof-of-concept: pairing high capacity anode materials by imbedding silicon (Si) in a tin (Sn) matrix. By doing so, a cell is presented with a reversible capacity of 700 mAh g(-1) (normalized to electrode) for 50 cycles. Through electrochemical analyses and XRD, it is confirmed that Sn is heavily utilized and the extent of Si utilization is calculated. With Sn lithiating prior to Si, an in situ pressure is formed that acts conformally on Si leading to greater reversibility. This study lays the groundwork investigating new architectures to better encapsulate Si in Sn. (C) 2015 The Electrochemical Society.