A novel nano-structured interpenetrating phase composite of silicon/graphite-tin for lithium-ion rechargeable batteries anode materials

A novel nano-structured interpenetrating phase composite (NSIPC) of silicon/graphite-tin (SGM) anode material for lithium-ion rechargeable batteries is synthesized by high energy mechanical milling (HEMM). The structural and morphological characterizations have been carried out through X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The electrochemical performances have been analyzed with reference to Li+/Li and the results are compared with silicon/graphite composites. The SGM NSIPC electrode exhibits the better cyclability than the SG composite electrodes. The initial discharge specific capacity of the as-prepared SGM NSIPC is relatively high around 1790 mA h g−1 with 1592 mA h g−1 reversible capacity retention in the following cycle at a current density of 237 mA g−1 in the voltage from 0.03 V to 1.5 V. In addition, the SGM NSIPC electrode shows the good rate capability and possesses the stable cycling performance even charging and discharging at the large current density. Consequently, SGM NSIPC can be the promising anode material for the next generation lithium ion rechargeable batteries.