Efficient flexible electrodes for lithium-ion batteries utilizing well-dispersed hybrid Mo2C nanoparticles on vertically-oriented graphene nanowalls

Flexible lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have gained significant interest as potential power source solutions for wearable and flexible electronic devices. However, the fabrication of flexible LIBs with optimal flexibility, mechanical stability, and high energy density remains a formidable challenge fo...

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Bibliographic Details
Authors: Farid, Ghulam, Amade, Roger, Chaitoglou, Stefanos, Alshaikh, Islam, Ospina, Rogelio, Ma, Yang, Bertrán Serra, Enric
Format: article
Status:Published version
Publication Date:2023
Country:España
Institution:Universidad de Barcelona
Repository:Dipòsit Digital de la UB
OAI Identifier:oai:diposit.ub.edu:2445/219213
Online Access:https://hdl.handle.net/2445/219213
Access Level:Open access
Keyword:Grafè
Liti
Nanopartícules
Graphene
Lithium
Nanoparticles
Description
Summary:Flexible lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have gained significant interest as potential power source solutions for wearable and flexible electronic devices. However, the fabrication of flexible LIBs with optimal flexibility, mechanical stability, and high energy density remains a formidable challenge for researchers. Transition metal carbides are being investigated as capable anode materials for advanced lithium-ion batteries. In this study, we explore the growth of molybdenum carbides (Mo2C) and vertically-oriented graphene nanowalls (VGNWs) on flexible graphite paper (Papyex®) and their potential application as anode material for Lithium-Ion batteries (LIBs). Our approach involves a bottom-up synthesis of binder-free hybrid electrodes through the deposition of Mo carbide nanostructures on VGNWs using a combination of chemical vapour deposition, magnetron sputtering, and thermal annealing processes. The hybrid structure of Mo2C/VGNWs exhibits distinct and specialized attributes, including remarkable structural durability, small particle size, and a porous configuration. These features effectively promote the accessibility of electrons and ions to the interface between the electrode and electrolyte. Our electrochemical tests demonstrate that the Mo2C/VGNWs hybrids show superior lithium storage behavior when compared to VGNWs/Papyex® electrodes. The synergistic effects of the Mo2C nanoparticles and the highly conductive VGNW are mainly responsible for the enhanced electrochemical characteristics.