NiSb/nitrogen-doped carbon derived from Ni-based framework as advanced anode for lithium-ion batteries

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Antimony anodes offer low lithium-embedded platforms and high specific capacity for lithium-ion batteries.
• Significant volume expansion during lithium ion insertion/detachment hinders antimony anode performance.
• Developing stable and high-performance anode materials is crucial for advanced rechargeable batteries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize and characterize a novel NiSb alloy embedded in nitrogen-doped carbon (NiSb/C) composite.
• To investigate the structural and electrochemical properties of the NiSb/C composite as an anode material.
• To evaluate the potential of NiSb/C for improving cycling stability and rate capability in lithium-ion batteries.

Main Methods:

• Synthesis of NiSb alloy nanoparticles embedded in nitrogen-doped carbon via hydrothermal reaction and annealing.
• Characterization of the material's structure and morphology.
• Electrochemical testing, including cycling performance and rate capability measurements.

Main Results:

• The NiSb/C composite effectively alleviates volume expansion during lithium ion cycling.
• Nitrogen-doped carbon provides abundant active sites and enhances electron transport.
• The anode exhibits a reversible specific capacity of 426 mAh g^-1 after 450 cycles at 2 A g^-1.
• A superior rate capability of 387 mAh g^-1 was achieved at 5.0 A g^-1.

Conclusions:

• The developed NiSb/C anode material demonstrates promising potential for high-performance lithium-ion batteries.
• The synergistic effect between NiSb alloy and nitrogen-doped carbon enhances structural integrity and electrochemical performance.
• This work offers a viable strategy for designing advanced antimony-based anode materials.