Interface-Amorphized Ti3C2@Si/SiOx@TiO2 Anodes with Sandwiched Structures and Stable Lithium Storage

A new two-dimensional material (MXene) has been compounded lately with silicon as anodes for lithium-ion batteries to achieve excellent lithium storage performances on account of its unique properties, such as high electrical conductivities, low ion diffusion barrier, and large surface area. However, the exposed silicon particles may lead to fast capacity decaying upon direct contact with the electrolyte. To solve this issue, the porous silicon and SiO_x are introduced into Ti₃C₂T_x to construct a conductive network, and then Ti₃C₂@Si/SiO_x are covered with amorphous TiO₂ to make a sandwiched Ti₃C₂@Si/SiO_x@TiO₂ composite. Owing to the cooperation of the Ti₃C₂ matrix, Si/SiO_x interlayer, and amorphous TiO₂ layer, the reversible capacity of the Ti₃C₂@Si/SiO_x@TiO₂ composite with a sandwiched structure can be maintained at 939 mA h g^-1 after 100 cycles and enhanced capacity retention capabilities in the initial 10 cycles can be came ture. The combination of these four components also makes the Ti₃C₂@Si/SiO_x@TiO₂ composite material a promising application prospect in lithium-ion batteries.