Topic: Advanced Silicon Anodes for High-Energy-Density Batteries

The rapid rise of electric vehicles and portable electronics has intensified the demand for high‑energy‑density storage. Silicon stands out as the most promising anode candidate due to its ultra‑high capacity (~4200 mAh/g), low voltage, and abundance. However, its commercialization is severely hindered by huge volume expansion (>300%), unstable solid‑electrolyte interphase (SEI) growth, and poor conductivity. Unlocking silicon’s full potential requires integrated innovations in material design, interface engineering, electrolyte/binder chemistry, and full‑cell system integration.

This Special Issue of Energy Materials invites original research and forward‑looking reviews that bridge fundamental science with practical engineering for silicon‑based anodes. Contributions are welcome on, but not limited to:

● Material innovation – nanostructured Si, SiOₓ, Si alloys, Si/C composites, and green synthesis;

● Interface engineering – SEI regulation, advanced coatings, and artificial SEI construction;

● Chemical components – functional/self‑healing binders, novel electrolytes, gel/polymer and solid‑state electrolytes with interfacial compatibility;

● System integration – full‑cell pairing with Ni‑rich cathodes, pre‑lithiation, solid‑state Si batteries, and pouch/cylindrical cell validation;

● Mechanistic insights – in‑situ/operando characterization, multi‑scale modelling, and failure mechanisms (chemo‑mechanical coupling, thermal runaway);

● We cordially encourage submissions that address these challenges and accelerate the practical deployment of high‑energy silicon‑based batteries.

High-energy-density batteries, silicon anodes, silicon alloys, silicon-carbon (Si/C) composites, solid electrolyte interphase (SEI), pre-lithiation, solid-state batteries, interface engineering, in-situ characterization