Facile synthesis of heterogeneous Ni-Si@C nanocomposites as high-performance anodes for Li-ion batteries

A scalable solution based method for fabricating carbon coated Ni-Si nanocomposites for use as anode materials in Li ion batteries is reported. This facile process involves a one lot synthesis using an electrical pulse technique in oleic acid containing Si nanoparticles at room temperature and a subsequent carbonization route. In these nanocomposites, the Si nanoparticles are individually and separately coated with a carbon shell with a nanoscale thickness. Furthermore, the nanocomposites have a large specific surface area with a spherical complex-sLrucLure in which Ni nanoparricles and carbon layers play various pivotal roles, as a mechanically supporring barrier against the aggregaLion of Si nanoparLicles and as an elearonic pathway bervveen the acrive Si nanoparLicles. Because of Lhese favorable feaLures, Lhe obtained nanocornposires exhibft no only beer cycling perforrnances, bur also rare capabiliLy, in comparison with bare Si anode marerials. (C) 2014 Elsevier LLd. All rights reserved.