Study on Si–Ti alloy dispersed in a glassy matrix as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries

A nanosized silicon based composite consisting of Si, Si–Ti alloy phases dispersed in a glassy matrix is prepared by high energy mechanical milling (HEMM), followed by thermal treatment. X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM) are used to determine the phases obtained and to observe the microstructure and distribution of the components. The galvanostatic discharge/charge test is carried out to characterize the electrochemical properties of the composite. The composite electrode delivered a reversible capacity of 738.6 mAh g−1 after 50 cycles and the coulombic efficiency remains above 95% from the 3rd cycle. When the discharge capacity is limited to 700 mAh g−1, the reversible capacity is maintained at 675.8 mAh g−1 for 60 cycles without overcharge.