Flake (NH₄)₆Mo₇O₂₄/ Polydopamine as a High Performance Anode for Lithium Ion Batteries

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Energy Storage

Background:

• Ammonium molybdate tetrahydrate (AMT) is a common precursor for molybdenum-based battery materials.
• The direct use of AMT as an anode material in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) remains largely unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the electrochemical lithium storage capability of AMT as a direct anode material for LIBs.
• To enhance the performance of AMT by synthesizing a composite with polydopamine (PDA).

Main Methods:

• Direct electrochemical examination of AMT as an anode material.
• Synthesis of AMT/PDA composite using recrystallization and freeze-drying techniques.
• Morphological characterization and electrochemical performance testing (capacity, cycling stability, rate capability).

Main Results:

• AMT/PDA composite exhibits a flake morphology, distinct from the block shape of pure AMT.
• The AMT/PDA composite achieved an initial discharge capacity of 1471 mAh g⁻¹.
• A reversible capacity of 702 mAh g⁻¹ at 300 mA g⁻¹ and 383.6 mA h g⁻¹ at 0.5 A g⁻¹ after 400 cycles were demonstrated.

Conclusions:

• AMT is a viable anode material for LIBs, offering good capacity and cycling stability.
• The AMT/PDA composite significantly improves electrochemical performance.
• This study expands the potential applications of AMT and Mo-based anodes in LIBs.