A Novel Salen-based Porous Framework Polymer as Durable Anode for Lithium-Ion Storage

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Polymer Chemistry

Background:

• Organic electrode materials are crucial for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to their sustainability.
• Key challenges hindering their application include poor electrical conductivity and limited long-term cycling stability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel salen-based porous framework polymer (SPP) as an anode material for LIBs.
• To address the limitations of existing organic electrode materials by enhancing conductivity and durability.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of a novel salen-based porous framework polymer (SPP) with a large conjugated skeleton.
• Electrochemical characterization of SPP as an anode material in LIBs, including specific capacity, rate capability, and long-term cycling tests.
• Investigation of the lithium storage mechanism using ex-situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy.

Main Results:

• The SPP exhibited a high specific capacity of 337 mAh g⁻¹ at 0.1 C after 100 cycles and maintained 95.5 mAh g⁻¹ at 32 C.
• Demonstrated exceptional long-term cycling stability with a capacity of 155.7 mAh g⁻¹ at 8 C after 4000 cycles.
• Ex-situ XPS analysis revealed that C=N, -OH, and benzene ring active sites contribute to superior lithium storage.

Conclusions:

• The developed SPP shows excellent electrochemical performance, including high capacity, rate capability, and remarkable cycling stability.
• The unique porous structure and conjugated skeleton of SPP facilitate efficient electron transport and electrolyte infiltration.
• SPP is a promising candidate for next-generation organic electrode materials in rechargeable lithium-ion batteries and other energy storage applications.