Development and evaluation of a dual silica structure integrated with a metal-organic framework as a fast-charging anode for future lithium-ion batteries

The rapid advancement of lithium-ion battery (LIB) technologies necessitates fast charging capabilities and substantial energy storage. This study introduces a novel anode material featuring a dual silica (SiO 2 ) structure, synthesized via liquid-phase processing from silica nanoparticles and zeolitic imidazolate frameworks-67 (ZIF-67), and subsequently coated with mesoporous silica (SiO 2 /ZIF-67/SiO 2 ). Material properties analyses revealed that the material comprises dual silica structures and cobalt (Co) nanoparticles within a nitrogen-doped graphene-like framework (NG), all encapsulated in a carbon nanotube (CNT) matrix (SiO 2 @Co/NG-CNT@SiO 2 ). Electrochemical evaluations demonstrated that the dual silica structure electrode (DSiSE) exhibited an initial coulombic efficiency (ICE) of 84.41 % and maintained a reversible capacity of 873.42 mAh g −1 over 300 cycles at 0.3 A g −1 , with a retention rate of 96.27 %. Even at a high charge rate of 5 A g −1 , the DSiSE sustained a stable capacity of 450 mA h g −1 after 3000 cycles. When paired with a LiNi 0 . 5 Co 0 . 2 Mn 0 . 3 O 2 (NCM523) cathode, the DSiSE displayed excellent initial electrochemical performance . Additionally, after 3000 cycles at 5 A g⁻ 1 , a combination of non-destructive and post-mortem analyses was conducted to gain comprehensive insights into the performance and degradation mechanisms of the DSiSE anode during its cyclic life. The unique structure, rapid charge capability, exceptional energy storage, and extended lifespan of the SiO 2 @Co/NG-CNT@SiO 2 nanocomposite render it a promising candidate for high-performance anode materials in advanced LIBs for emerging applications. • Dual silica structure electrode (DSiSE) anode enables fast charging and high energy storage. • ICE of 84.41 % and 873.42 mAh g⁻ 1 over 300 cycles at 0.3 A g⁻ 1 . • Maintains 450 mAh g⁻ 1 after 3000 cycles at 5 A g⁻ 1 . • Non-destructive and post-mortem analyses reveal DSiSE structural stability.