Accommodation of Two-Dimensional SiO x in a Point-to-Plane Conductive Network Composed of Graphene and Nitrogen-Doped Carbon for Robust Lithium Storage.

Silicon oxides (SiO x ) are one of the most promising anode materials for next-generation lithium-ion batteries owing to their abundant reserve and low lost and high reversible capacity. However, the practical application of SiO x is still hindered by their intrinsically low conductivity and huge volume change. In this regard, we design a novel anode material in which sheet-like SiO x nanosheets are encapsulated in a unique point-to-plane conductive network composed of graphene flakes and nitrogen-doped carbon spheres. This unique composite structure demonstrates high specific capacity (867.7 mAh g -1 at 0.1 A g -1 ), superior rate performance, and stable cycle life. The electrode delivers a superior reversible discharge capacity of 595.8 mAh g -1 after 200 cycles at 1.0 A g -1 and 287.5 mAh g -1 after 500 cycles at 5.0 A g -1 . This work may shed light on the rational design of SiO x -based anode materials for next-generation high-performance lithium-ion batteries.