Synthesis of 3D silicon with tailored nanostructure: Influence of morphology on the electrochemical properties

Within this work, monodisperse porous silicon nanospheres have been derived from monodisperse silica nanospheres via two different magnesiothermic reduction routes, namely (i) magnesiothermic reduction using a two-chamber set-up, and (ii) magnesiothermic reduction using NaCl as heat scavenger. Both methods allow a size- and shape-preserving preparation of mesoporous silicon. Crystalline silicon with a particle size of 56 nm and a specific surface area of 198 m2 g− 1 and amorphous silicon with a particle size of 35 nm and a specific surface area of 623 m2 g− 1 are synthesized using the two chamber and salt assisted routes, respectively. TEM micrographs confirm enhanced porous character of silicon from NaCl assisted route. An unstable electrochemical performance of the crystalline silicon is found, whereas the amorphous Si presents a stable electrochemical behavior.