Abstract: Carbonaceous compounds and methods for preparation are described wherein the compounds comprise a pre-graphitic carbonaceous host having organized and disorganized regions and wherein atoms of other elements are incorporated in the host without changing the structure of the organized regions. A carbonaceous insertion compound with large reversible capacity for lithium can be prepared using elements capable of alloying with lithium, such as Si, as the incorporated atoms. These insertion compounds are suitable for use as high capacity anodes in lithium ion batteries.

Abstract: 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.