Facile synthesizing silicon waste/carbon composites via rapid thermal process for lithium-ion battery anode

Abstract

The purified silicon waste powder from photovoltaic industries is turned into the anode material through a facile procedure, rapid thermal process. The silicon waste/carbon composite anode is formed by partial carbonization of cross-linked poly(acrylic acid)/poly(vinyl alcohol) binder during rapid thermal process. This strategy improves conductive framework of silicon waste anode, preventing the electrode from pulverization due to the serious volume expansion of silicon during cycling. Furthermore, the carbon matrix structure in the electrode provides the conductive path for electrons, so no additional conductive agents are required in this novel anode design. The enhanced electrode shows a reversible charge capacity of 1157 mAh g−1 after 140 cycles. Moreover, a high first cycle efficiency of approximately 89%, and superior rate capability are achieved. Overall, on the basis of these advantages, including low cost, facile manufacture, and high performance, this approach provides a pathway to achieve high-capacity anodes for lithium ion batteries.