Electrochemical characteristics of submicron-size spherical mesoporous silica (SBA-15) as lithium battery anode

Submicron-sized spherical mesoporous silica (SBA-15) is a potential anode for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), but the electrochemical reversibility of nanostructured silica depends on its interfacial characteristics, including solid electrolyte interface (SEI) formation and percolating network. To enhance its electron transport, submicron-sized spherical SBA-15 particles are embedded inside the commercial acetylene carbon black (ACB), and its performance tested as an anode against lithium. The optimum anode composition of 20 wt% SBA-15 in ACB exhibits a reversible specific capacity of 710 mA h g(-1) at 50 mA g(-1 )for 300 cycles and provides an excellent rate capability when tested against lithium. The SEI is also investigated with X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The electrochemical performance of the composite is enhanced due to the dispersed state of SBA-15 in carbon network and the porous structure that can accommodate the volume expansion during the cycling process.