Fabrication of Si/TiC–SiC/C composites as high-performance anode materials for Li-ion batteries

Si/TiC–SiC/C composites were prepared by solvothermal process, ball milling and subsequent calcination under Ar atmosphere. The microstructure of Si/TiC–SiC/C composites was characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electrons microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Moreover, the relative contents of TiC and SiC phases in Si/TiC–SiC/C composites were determined by XRD Rietveld refinement and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and their effects on the electrochemical properties of Si/TiC–SiC/C composites were further discussed. The results indicate that Si/TiC–SiC/C-0.33 composites with high relative content of TiC phase deliver capacity retentions of 98.0% after 50 cycles at 0.5 A g −1 and 79.5% after 150 cycles at 1 A g −1 . The superior electrochemical performances should be attributed to the higher mechanical stability and better electronic conductivity of buffer matrix with higher TiC content. • Si/TiC–SiC/C composites are prepared and show superior electrochemical properties. • The synergy of TiC, SiC and C gives coating layer high strength and conductivity. • High TiC content is conductive to improving the conductivity of coating layer.