Silicon@carbon hollow core–shell heterostructures novel anode materials for lithium ion batteries

Silicon is a promising candidate for the anode material in lithium ion batteries due to its ultrahigh theoretical capacity of 4200 mAh g−1, which is approximately ten times larger compared to current commercial graphite anodes. However, the pulverization and capacity fading caused by the dramatic volume changes during cycling are still challenging its widespread application. To address these problems, a novel Si@C heterostructure with tunable preformed voids between Si core and carbon shell is synthesized via a flexible and tunable route. When evaluated for their electrochemical properties, these hollow Si@C spheres show enhanced electrochemical properties.

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► Unique Si@C composites with preformed voids were synthesized.
► A facile template coating-etching to generate voids between core and shell.
► The preformed voids act as electrolyte reservoirs.
► This material manifests enhanced electrochemical performance.