Abstract
Silicon anodes hold promise for future lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to their high capacity, but they face challenges such as severe volume expansion and low electrical conductivity. In this study, we present a straightforward and scalable electrostatic self-assembly method to fabricate WSi@SiO(x)/Ti(3)C(2) composites for LIBs. Silicon nanosheets and the ultra-thin oxide layer SiO(x) serve as sufficient buffers against volume changes, while the layered MXene enhances the electrical conductivity of the composite and promoted Li(+)/e(-) transport. Additionally, cationic surfactant-treated Ti(3)C(2) provides more active sites for WSi@SiO(x) attachment and acts as an intercalating agent, enabling WSi@SiO(x) to enter the interlayer spaces of Ti(3)C(2). The WSi@SiO(x)/Ti(3)C(2) electrodes significantly improved electrochemical performance, achieving a capacity of 1,130 mAh g(-1) after 800 charge/discharge cycles at 500 mA g(-1). This study not only presents a straightforward pathway for high-value utilization of silicon waste but also offers a feasible route for preparing high-performance and cost-effective silicon-based LIBs.