Zn-assisted magnesiothermic reduction for the preparation of ultra-fine silicon nanocrystals for lithium ion batteries

Here, we merged zinc-silicon alloy-dealloy and magnesiothermic reduction process for obtaining Si anode materials. Through the zinc assisted magnesiothermic reduction, the obtained Si possesses homogeneous mesoporous structure, large surface area, high pore volume and well dispersed Si grains, which is quite different with the Zn free one. The as-fabricated Si anode delivers high reversible capacity and good cycling stability.