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The development of elastic nanostructured Si-based anodes holds promise for advancing lithium-ion batteries due to the high theoretical specific capacity exhibited by Si. Combining nanostructured Si with C proves to be a successful strategy in addressing the challenges tied to the substantial volume expansion of Si during lithiation. In this work, a novel Si-based anode is fashioned through a simple and universal strategy, integrating Si nanoparticles with 1D nano-carbonaceous fillers (CPPy-NT) featuring nanotubular morphology and N atoms, and a water-based binder (poly(acrylic acid)). CPPy-NT are derived by carbonizing pre-synthesized polypyrrole nanotubes (PPy-NT). A clear correlation is established among the carbonization temperature for CPPy-NT preparation, N content in CPPy-NT, electrical conductivity, and the electrochemical performance of the ensuing Si/CPPy-NT anode. For comparative analysis, the electrochemical properties of the Si-based anode employing Super P (commercial carbon black) or PPy-NT are contrasted with those of Si/CPPy-NT. Notably, the Si/CPPy-NT anode with CPPy-NT bearing the highest amount of graphitic N sites exhibits a substantial improvement in initial charge capacity (approximately 2200 mAh g−1) and enhanced cycling stability. These findings underscore the potential to elevate the electrochemical activity of the C filler by carefully optimizing morphology, conductivity, and the incorporation of an appropriate amount of graphitic N. [Display omitted] • Synthesis of N-containing 1D nano-carbonaceous fillers with tailored properties. • Integration of N-containing 1D nano-carbonaceous fillers in Si-based anodes. • Development of novel Si/C anodes using an environmentally friendly approach. • Beneficial role of N in enhancing the electrochemical properties of Si/C anodes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High energy and power density are key requirements for next-generation lithium-ion batteries. One way to improve the former is to reduce the binder and conductive additive content. Carbon black is an important additive that facilitates electronic conduction in lithium-ion batteries and affects the conductive binder domain although it only occupies 5–8% of the electrode mass. However, the function of the structure of carbon black on short- and long-range electronic contacts and pores in the electrode is still not clear and has not been systematically researched in detail. In this work, five carbon blacks with different BET surface areas, oil absorption numbers and ordered graphitic carbon content were investigated. It was found that the ratio of disordered amorphous carbon to ordered graphitic carbon in carbon blacks strongly influences the short- and long-range electrical conduction, and the BET surface area highly affects the pore structure and ionic conductivity in the electrode. Its optimum ratio, indicated by the Raman density I D / I G , is 0.93–0.95. The recommended BET surface area was 130–200 m2/g for this experimental range. The results of this study can provide guidance for the screening of carbon blacks in the lithium-ion battery industry. • Ratio of disordered to ordered carbon highly influences the electronic conduction. • BET surface area highly influences the pore structure and ionic conductivity. • Recommended ratio of carbon is 0.93–0.95 indicated by I D / I G of Raman spectroscopy. • Recommended BET surface area is 130–200 m2/g. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]