Electrospun 3D CNF–SiO2 fabricated using non-biodegradable silica gel as prospective anode for lithium–ion batteries

Abstract

An eco-friendly simple, cost-effective, and recyclable strategy was approached to fabricate high-capacity anode for lithium–ion batteries (LIBs). A non-biodegradable solid waste obtained from the used silica gel pack was pulverised and used directly as a source of silicon dioxide nanoparticles. The SiO2-incorporated carbon nanofiber (CNF–SiO2) composite was prepared via the electrospinning technique. LIB constructed with CNF–SiO2 nanocomposite electrode delivered enhanced initial discharge capacity of 900 mA h g−1 and a remarkable discharge capacity of 1000 mA h g−1 after 300 cycles of charge and discharge at a cycling rate of 0.1 C (current density ≈ 0.19 A g−1). The CNF–SiO2 electrode exhibited reduced charge transfer resistance and a higher rate capability at various cycling rates with highest reversible discharge capacity of nearly 975 mA h g−1 at 0.2 C. The excellent rate capability of CNF–SiO2 composite electrode obtained from non-indicative desiccant followed by electrospinning with improved charge discharge capacity demonstrates its potential application in LIBs.