Self-supported multi-walled carbon nanotube-embedded silicon nanoparticle films for anodes of Li-ion batteries

Self-supported multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT)-embedded Si nanoparticle (NP) film electrodes for Li-ion rechargeable batteries have been prepared through chemical vapor deposition using acetylene gas and a facile spin coating process using commercial Si nanopowders. The void spaces between the MWCNTs were densely filled with a considerable amount of Si NPs with diameters of ∼50 nm. The MWCNT-embedded Si NP film electrodes showed improved cycling performance. These high electrochemical performances were ascribed to the roles of MWCNTs providing an efficient electron-transport path and alleviating severe volume change of Si NPs occurring during Li-alloying/de-alloying process.