Vertically aligned silicon/carbon nanotube (VASCNT) arrays: Hierarchical anodes for lithium-ion battery

Vertically aligned silicon/carbon nanotube arrays are directly synthesized on Inconel metal current collector as lithium-ion battery anode. The hierarchical anode eliminates the traditional preparation of electrodes obviating the use of polymer binder facilitating the desired lithium ion and electron kinetics in the electrode. The simple approach demonstrates a facile non-template way to prepare integrated anode architectures. The as synthesized anode demonstrates stable capacity ~ 2000 mAhg−1 with only 6% irreversible loss observed in the first cycle.

Research Highlights
► First nano hierarchical Si report with ~2070 mAh/g capacity and 6% first cycle irreversible loss.
► Hierarchical VASCNT grown directly on Inconel using a template free 2-step ambient pressure CVD.
► First template and lithographic free report of hierarchical VASCNT grown on current collector.
► New paradigm of direct VASCNT growth on current collector obviating binder, additive and solvent.