LAUSR

Abstract Carbon particles modified macroporous Si/Ni composite (MP-Si/Ni/C) is easily obtained via a facile fabrication of porous Si/Ni precursor by dealloying SiNiAl alloy followed by a surface growth of carbon nanoparticles. MP-Si/Ni/C composite possesses the multiply conductivity modification that are built through mixing Ni dispersoid and growing one layer of carbon particles. Coupled with the structural advantages of interconnected network backbone, rich voids, and the coated carbon particles, MP-Si/Ni/C exhibits dramatically enhanced lithium storage performances with excellent reversible capacity, enhanced rate performance, as well as outstanding cycling stability compared with pure MP-Si and MP-Si/Ni. Especially, the reversible capacity remains up to 1113.1 and 708.8 mA h g−1 at the current densities of 200 and 1000 mA g−1 after 120 cycles, respectively. Besides, it shows excellent rate capability even when continuously cycled at high current density of 3000 mA g−1. With the advantages of unique structure, excellent performances, and facile preparation, the as-made MP-Si/Ni/C composite shows promising application potential as an alternative anode for lithium ion batteries.