Preliminary tests have shown that it is possible to manufacture functional silicon (Si) electrodes using only one single polymer, polydopamine (PDA). With a partial carbonisation process after electrode coating, one part of the PDA maintains its characteristics as binder. Simultaneously, another part of the PDA breaks down to carbon material to improve the electrical conductivity in the electrode. The lithiation capacity in the first cycle reached the theoretical capacity (above 3000 mAh/g). Moreover, the rest capacity after 100 cycles at 1C was up to 550 mAh/g.
To further improve the performance and the reproducibility of the electrode, the concentration of dopamine is increased and the polymerisation of PDA was carried out before the electrode slurry mixing. Three different temperatures were further evaluated for partial carbonisation.

The initial objective of achieving better homogeneity in the mixing and coating of Si@C-PDA-anodes were accomplished. Subsequently, the electrodes underwent electrochemical testing both in their original state and after carbonisation processes at 300°C, 500°C, and 800°C. Notable, electrodes processed at 500°C exhibited sufficient mechanical stability and enhanced electrical conductivity, resulting in excellent and stable electrochemical performance at 0.1C. However, given the varying electrochemical performance of the cells, it is possible that the PDA did not disperse evenly throughout. Despite the anticipated higher electrical conductivity at 800°C carbonisation, post-process mechanical stability was notably poor.
To further optimize the performance of Si-PDA electrodes, efforts will focus on enhancing PDA uniformity within the electrodes through polymerization processes conducted before and during slurry mixing. Additionally, identifying the optimal carbonization temperature limit, ensuring adequate mechanical stability, and maximizing electrical conductivity will be prioritized in future investigation.