Enhanced Lithium Storage Performance of α-MoO₃/CNTs Composite Cathode

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Orthorhombic molybdenum oxide (α-MoO₃) is a promising pseudocapacitive material for lithium-ion batteries, offering high theoretical capacity.
• However, its practical application is hindered by low electrical conductivity, slow kinetics, and significant volume changes during cycling.

Purpose of the Study:

• To enhance the electrochemical performance of α-MoO₃ for lithium storage.
• To address the limitations of pure α-MoO₃ by incorporating carbon nanotubes (CNTs).

Main Methods:

• A one-step hydrothermal process was used to synthesize the α-MoO₃/CNTs composite with a low CNT content (1.76%).
• The composite material was characterized for its structural and electrochemical properties.

Main Results:

• The incorporation of CNTs increased the interlayer spacing of α-MoO₃ nanobelts, creating more active sites and improving reaction kinetics.
• CNTs formed a 3D conductive network, enhancing electrical conductivity, electron transport, and ion diffusion, while mitigating volume expansion issues.
• The α-MoO₃/CNTs composite cathode exhibited significantly improved rate performance and cycle life compared to pure α-MoO₃.
• After 150 cycles, the composite retained 93 mAh/g capacity, whereas pure α-MoO₃ showed negligible energy storage.

Conclusions:

• The α-MoO₃/CNTs composite demonstrates superior lithium storage capabilities due to synergistic effects between α-MoO₃ and CNTs.
• This composite represents a viable strategy for developing high-performance cathode materials for advanced lithium-ion batteries.