Practical considerations of Si-based anodes for lithium-ion battery applications

Using Si-based anodes in Li-ion batteries is one of the most feasible approaches to achieve high energy densities despite their disadvantages, such as low conductivity and massive volume expansion, which cause unstable solid electrolyte interphase layers with mechanical failure. The forefront in research and development to address the above challenges suggests the possibility of fully commercially viable cells using various structural and interfacial modifications. In particular, we present a discussion of each dimension of Si-based anodes in multiple controlled systems, including plain, hollow, porous, and uniquely engineered structures, which are further evaluated based on their anode performances, such as initial reversibility, capacity retention for extended cycles with its efficiency, degree of volume expansion tolerance, and rate capabilities, by several practical standards in half cells. With these practical considerations, multi-dimensional structures with uniform size distributions (micrometers, on average) are strongly desired to satisfy the rigorous requirements for widespread applications. Furthermore, we closely examined several full cells composed of Si-based multicomponent anodes coupled with suitable cathodes based on practical standards to propose future research directions for Si-based anodes to keep pace with the rapidly changing market demands for diverse energy storage systems.