Owing to high energy density, silicon monoxide is an attractive anode material for lithium ion secondary batteries. However, its huge irreversible capacity (luring initial cycling makes it difficult to use in lithium secondary batteries. A new technique for lithiation in the silicon monoxide has been developed using Li powders. The electrochemical behavior of the lithium powder pre-doped carbon-coated silicon monoxide (OG) anode cell was studied. The cells showed reduced initial irreversibility and enhanced coulombic efficiency. The behavior of the cells was analyzed by X-ray diffraction and electrochemical testing methods. (c) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.