Rechargeable lithiated silicon–sulfur (SLS) battery prototypes

Amorphous columnar structured silicon film electrodes were prepared and electrochemically tested in dioxolane based electrolyte solution, containing LiNO3. The electrochemical performance of prelithiated amorphous silicon anodes coupled with sulfur composite cathodes was evaluated in full Si–Li–Sulfur (SLS) cells. The reversible capacity at the first 10 cycles was 600 mAh/g sulfur with gradual fading to ~ 380 mAh/g sulfur after 60 cycles which is the highest obtained capacity reported for SLS full cells. Possible reasons for this capacity fading are discussed.

► Columnar structures a-Si electrode prepared by DC sputtering.
► A capacity of 600 mAh/g achieved for more than 300 cycles.
► Prelithiated silicon anode couples with composite carbon sulfur cathode.
► A capacity of 600 mAh/g sulfur obtained for first 10 cycles.
► The capacity decreased to ~ 380 mAh/g after 60 cycles.