Silicon confinement enabled by heterogeneous carbon networks for stabilized lithium storage

In this investigation, Si nanoparticles are anchored onto a multi-level carbon structure (C-MSZSZ) derived from a heterogeneous MOF. The hierarchical carbon layers strongly bind the Si nanoparticles, providing sufficient void space to accommodate volume expansion during cycling. Additionally, the creation of trimetallic active centers and carbon defects boost electrical conductivity and Li + transport kinetics. The presence of abundant open channels within the carbon matrix also facilitates the transfer of electrons and ions, thereby leading to a promoted electrochemical reaction process. As a result, the battery harvests a high reversible capacity of 1035.7 mA h g –1 at 0.5 A g –1 after 200 cycles, along with remarkable rate capability. The delicate design of multi-level carbon architecture offers a promising strategy for the development of advanced anode materials aimed at achieving high-performance LIBs. Based on a delicate “layer-by-layer” assembly strategy, the silicon anode shows a robust structural integrity and favorable performance owing to the significantly relieved volume expansion and optimized electron/ion transport kinetics. Graphical abstract