A Low-Cost SiOx/C@Graphite Composite Derived from Oat Husk as an Advanced Anode for High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries

Abstract

Silicon monoxide (SiOx), as a promising anode for the next-generation high-power lithium-ion batteries, has some advantages such as higher lithium storage capacity (∼2400 mAh g-1), suitable working potential, and smaller volume variations during cycling compared with pure silicon. However, its disadvantages such as its inherent low conductivity and high cost impede its extensive applications. Herein, we have developed a low-cost and high-capacity SiOx/C@graphite (SCG) composite derived from oat husks by a simple argon/hydrogen reduction method. For further practical application, we also investigated the electrochemical performances of SiOx mixed with different ratios of graphite. As an advanced anode for lithium-ion batteries, the SCG-1 composite exhibits an excellent electrochemical performance in terms of lithium storage capacity (809.5 mAh g-1 at 0.5 A g-1 even after the 250th cycle) and high rate capability (479.7 mAh g-1 at 1 A g-1 after the 200th cycle). This work may pave the way for developing a low-cost silicon-based anode derived from biomass with a large reversible capacity and long cycle life in lithium-ion batteries.