Coil‐to‐Stretch Transition of Binder Chains Enabled by “Nano‐Combs” to Facilitate Highly Stable SiO _x Anode

The commercialized binder carboxymethyl cellulose sodium (CMC-Na) is considered unsuitable for micro-sized SiOx anode as it cannot endure the large volume change to retain conductive network during repeated charge/discharge cycles. Herein, a small amount of silicon nanoparticles (SiNPs) added slurry preparation process “nano-combs” unfold convoluted CMC-Na polymer chains so that they undergo coil-to-stretch transition by interaction between polar groups (e.g., –OH, –COONa) and SiNPs’ surface. Through maximizing utilization binders, uniform constructed with increased interfacial contact SiOx. As result, electrode optimized (10 wt%) SiNPs addition shows significantly improved initial capacity cycling performance. revisiting CMC-Na, currently deemed unqualified in anode, this work gives brand-new perspective on failing mechanism Si-based materials an improving strategy preparation.