Abstract: Methods for preparing a silicon-based electroactive material for use in an electrochemical cell are provided. The methods include heating a silicon oxide (SiOx, where 0.1?x?2) particle to a temperature between about 600° C. and about 1200° C. over a period between about 30 minutes and about 10 hours to form the silicon-based electroactive material, where the silicon-based electroactive material includes a silicon oxide matrix and a plurality of silicon crystallites embedded therein. In certain instances, the heating may occur in an inert atmosphere such that the silicon crystallites are distributed throughout the silicon oxide matrix. In other instances, the heating may occur in a reducing environment such that the silicon crystallites are condensed in one or more regions in the silicon oxide matrix. In each instance, the silicon-based electroactive material may be carbon coated by heating the silicon-based electroactive material in an environment including hydrocarbons.

Abstract: A process for sanitizing and increasing the hatchability of hatchery eggs by exposing the eggs to a solution of hydrogen peroxide during one or more stages of the hatchery process prior to hatching. The process unexpectedly results in a significant increase in the hatchability of the eggs treated.