Silicon Oxycarbide-Graphite Electrodes for High-Power Energy Storage Devices

Herein we present a study on polymer-derived silicon oxycarbide (SiOC)/graphite composites for a potential application as an electrode in high power energy storage devices, such as Lithium-Ion Capacitor (LIC). The composites were processed using high power ultrasound-assisted sol-gel synthesis followed by pyrolysis. The intensive sonication enhances gelation and drying process, improving the homogenous distribution of the graphitic flakes in the preceramic blends. The physicochemical investigation of SiOC/graphite composites using X-ray diffraction, (29)Si solid state NMR and Raman spectroscopy indicated no reaction occurring between the components. The electrochemical measurements revealed enhanced capacity (by up to 63%) at high current rates (1.86 A g(−1)) recorded for SiOC/graphite composite compared to the pure components. Moreover, the addition of graphite to the SiOC matrix decreased the value of delithiation potential, which is a desirable feature for anodes in LIC.