Abstract: Due to its high capacity, silicon based anode materials have been widely studied in recent years. However，the commercialization of silicon-based materials as the anode of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) has been hindered by the huge volume change, poor cycle life and low initial coulombic efficiency during the charge/ discharge process. This article analyses the insertion/ interinsertion lithium ion principle of silicon anodes, reviews the change of the crystal structure and the surface/ interface of Si-based material during the intercalation/ deintercalation of lithium, and the methods for improving the electrochemical performance. The prospects of silicon-based materials as the anode of LIBs are also discussed.