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Enhancing Magnesium-Ion Storage in a Bi-Sn Anode through Dual-Phase Engineering
Muhammad Rashad1, Apinya Ngoipala1, Matthias Vandichel1
1Department of Chemical Sciences and Bernal Institute, University of Limerick, Limerick V94 T9PX, Ireland.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|October 5, 2024
Summary
This study introduces dual-phase bismuth-tin (Bi-Sn) anodes for magnesium-ion batteries (MIBs), overcoming pure tin
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Computational Chemistry
Background:
- Magnesium-ion batteries (MIBs) are a promising alternative to lithium-ion technology.
- Reactivity of magnesium metal and inactivity of pure tin anodes hinder MIB development.
- Need for advanced anode materials with high capacity and stability for MIBs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate dual-phase bismuth-tin (Bi-Sn) anodes for magnesium storage.
- To investigate the mechanism of magnesium alloying and dealloying in Bi-Sn systems.
- To understand the role of phase interfaces in enhancing electrochemical performance.
Main Methods:
- Synthesis and electrochemical characterization of dual-phase Bi-Sn anodes.
- Performance evaluation including specific capacity, cycle life, and rate capability.
- Density functional theory (DFT) calculations to elucidate Mg alloying and diffusion mechanisms.
Main Results:
- Optimal Bi66.5Sn33.5 composition delivered 462 mAh g-1 at 100 mA g-1 and 403 mAh g-1 at 1000 mA g-1.
- Achieved 84% capacity retention after 200 cycles, demonstrating good cycle stability.
- DFT calculations confirmed favorable Mg alloying with Bi and facilitated Mg insertion into Sn via Mg3Bi2//Sn interfaces.
Conclusions:
- Dual-phase Bi-Sn anodes exhibit superior magnesium storage performance compared to pure Bi or Sn.
- Alloying and interfacial effects in Bi-Sn systems enhance magnesiation/demagnesiation kinetics.
- Bi-Sn anodes represent a viable strategy for developing high-performance MIBs.
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