Carbonaceous insertion compounds and use as anodes in rechargeable batteries

摘要

Carbonaceous insertion compounds and methods for preparation are described wherein the compounds comprise a pre-graphitic carbonaceous host and atoms of an element capable of alloying with alkali metal atoms, the alloying atoms being incorporated predominantly as monodispersed atoms in the host. A carbonaceous insertion compound with large reversible capacity for lithium can be prepared if the alloying atoms incorporated are Si. Such insertion compounds can be prepared by simple pyrolysis of suitable polymers containing silicon and carbon at an appropriate temperature. These insertion compounds may be suitable for use as high capacity anodes in lithium ion batteries.