Research Progresses on Nano-Structured Silicon-Based Materials as Anode for Lithium-Ion Batteries

Silicon-based materials are considered the most promising next-generation anode materials for lithium-ion batteries due to their high theoretical specific capacity, rich reserves, and advantages of low discharge potential. However, the significant volume expansion of silicon during the cycling process leads to the detachment of active substances and the loss of electrical contact between the active substances and the current collector, ultimately resulting in a decline in battery performance. Nanostructured anodes have advantages of high specific surface area, short diffusion path, and the ability to effectively alleviate the volume expansion of electrode material during circulation. Therefore, how to rationally design the nanostructured silicon-based anodes is currently one of the research hotspots. This article first reviews and evaluates the advantages and disadvantages of microstructured and nano-structured silicon anodes in rate performance, discusses cycle stability and volumetric energy density, and discusses and summarizes the lithium storage mechanism of silicon-based materials, with a focus on the influence of some nanostructured silicon anodes and silicon/carbon composites and conductive polymers and silicon/metal composites on the electrochemical properties of materials. Finally, some suggestions and prospects for the future development of silicon-based materials are proposed.