Self-supported multi-walled carbon nanotube-embedded silicon nanoparticle films for anodes of Li-ion batteries

Self-supported multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)-embedded Si nanoparticle (NP) film electrodes for Li-ion rechargeable batteries have been prepared through chemical vapor deposition using acetylene gas and a facile spin coating process using commercial Si nanopowders. The void spaces between the MWCNTs were densely filled with a considerable amount of Si NPs with diameters of ∼50 nm. The MWCNT-embedded Si NP film electrodes showed improved cycling performance. These high electrochemical performances were ascribed to the roles of MWCNTs providing an efficient electron-transport path and alleviating severe volume change of Si NPs occurring during Li-alloying/de-alloying process.

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► Synthesis of MWCNT-embedded Si nanoparticle films via CVD and spin coating processes.
► Electrochemical evaluation of the MWCNT-embedded Si nanoparticle films for Li-ion battery electrodes.
► Beneficial effect of MWCNT network for the superior electrochemical performances.