Toward understanding the interaction within Silicon-based anodes for stable lithium storage

Silicon (Si) is the most promising active anode material in lithium-ion batteries due to its high lithiation/delithiation capacity, abundant availability and low discharge potential as compared to graphite and other types of alloys. However, Si as an anode material faces volume change problem during electrochemical process as well as low electric and ionic conductivity which leads to formation of unstable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) film and electrical contact loss. To overcome these challenges, many attempts have been made to modify Si-based anode materials. Coupling of Si with matrices (binders, amorphous carbon, polymers, graphene, carbon nanofibers and carbon nanotubes) has been considered the promising strategy for stable lithium storage due to high mechanical and electrical properties. The interaction between Si and matrices, however, has been rarely explored. In this review, we focused on exploring the physical and chemical interactions between Si and matrices (as an anode materials) as well as pros and cons associated with these variety of interactions. Our aim is to compile a comprehensive explanation on composites made up of Si/matrices and the nature of interactions exist within Si based anode materials. Moreover, keeping the future prospective in mind, some far-reaching suggestions have been proposed regarding stable Si anodes for next generation LIBs.