Ag particles have been deposited on commercial Si particles. The effects of Ag deposition on Si are characterized with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), XPS, XRD, CV, LSC and EIS. The improved electrochemical performance of Si electrode is attributed to the decomposition of electrolyte on Ag/Si electrode prior to Li insertion that leads to Si particle pulverization. The products of the decomposed electrolyte binds the Si particles and ensures good electric contact between them. (C) 2003 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.