Bioinspired Neuron-Like Conjugated Polymer Chains@MXene of Polymer-Based Anode for High-Rate Potassium-Ion Batteries

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electrochemistry
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Polymer electrode materials (PEMs) offer tunable structures for potassium storage but suffer from low electrical conductivity.
• Developing efficient and stable anode materials is crucial for advancing potassium-ion batteries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize a novel bioinspired neuron-like network of conjugated polymer nanofilaments grafted onto MXene nanosheets (CMP@BrMXene).
• To enhance electron transport and potassium-ion coordination in polymer-based anodes.
• To investigate the electrochemical performance and reaction mechanisms of the novel electrode material.

Main Methods:

• Controlled grafting of conjugated polymer nanofilaments onto MXene nanosheets.
• Electrochemical characterization including cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge-discharge, and rate capability tests.
• Operando X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and theoretical analysis to elucidate reaction mechanisms.

Main Results:

• CMP@BrMXene electrodes exhibit a high reversible specific capacity of 525 mAh g^-1 at 30 mA g^-1.
• Outstanding rate capability was achieved, retaining 119.8 mAh g^-1 at 3000 mA g^-1.
• Excellent cycling stability with 88.4% capacity retention after 3000 cycles at 1 A g^-1.

Conclusions:

• The neuron-like architecture with MXene junctions facilitates rapid electron transport and enhances K⁺ storage.
• MXene acts as a multifunctional junction, streamlining redox processes and improving active site utilization.
• The CMP@BrMXene electrodes represent a new paradigm for high-performance potassium storage anodes.