A Self-Healing Binder based on Host-Guest Interaction for Carbon-Silicon Anodes in Llithium Ion Batteries

Abstract Silicon anodes offer exceptional specific capacity, positioning them as prime candidates for next-generation lithium-ion batteries. However, their practical application is hindered by severe volume expansion and structural degradation during cycling. Herein, we report a self-healing binder for carbon-silicon anodes, constructed from β-cyclodextrin and 1-vinylimidazole, leveraging host–guest interactions to mitigate mechanical stress. This binder accommodates silicon’s volume changes, significantly enhancing structural integrity and electrochemical stability. Compared to conventional polyvinylidene fluoride binders, the proposed system delivers a 30% higher specific capacity at 0.2 C, underscoring its potential for advanced silicon-based lithium-ion batteries and broader energy storage applications.