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9 pages, 1974 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Synthesis of Si/C Composites by Silicon Waste Recycling and Carbon Coating for High-Capacity Lithium-Ion Storage

by Jinning Huang, Jun Li, Lanxin Ye, Min Wu, Hongxia Liu, Yingxue Cui, Jiabiao Lian and Chuan Wang

Nanomaterials 2023, 13(14), 2142; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13142142 - 24 Jul 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1153

Abstract

It is of great significance to recycle the silicon (Si) kerf slurry waste from the photovoltaic (PV) industry. Si holds great promise as the anode material for Li-ion batteries (LIBs) due to its high theoretical capacity. However, the large volume expansion of Si [...] Read more.

It is of great significance to recycle the silicon (Si) kerf slurry waste from the photovoltaic (PV) industry. Si holds great promise as the anode material for Li-ion batteries (LIBs) due to its high theoretical capacity. However, the large volume expansion of Si during the electrochemical processes always leads to electrode collapse and a rapid decline in electrochemical performance. Herein, an effective carbon coating strategy is utilized to construct a precise Si@C_PPy composite using cutting-waste silicon and polypyrrole (PPy). By optimizing the mass ratio of Si and carbon, the Si@C_PPy composite can exhibit a high specific capacity and superior rate capability (1436 mAh g⁻¹ at 0.1 A g⁻¹ and 607 mAh g⁻¹ at 1.0 A g⁻¹). Moreover, the Si@C_PPy composite also shows better cycling stability than the pristine prescreen silicon (PS-Si), as the carbon coating can effectively alleviate the volume expansion of Si during the lithiation/delithiation process. This work showcases a high-value utilization of PV silicon scraps, which helps to reduce resource waste and develop green energy storage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Nanomaterials for Efficient Energy Conversion and Storage)

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10 pages, 3940 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

A 3D Multilevel Heterostructure Containing 2D Vertically Aligned MoS₂ Nanosheets and 1D Sandwich C-MoS₂-C Nanotubes to Enhance the Storage of Li⁺ Ions

by Yiyang Zhao, Wenhao Luo, Huiqing Luo, Xiaodi Liu and Wenjun Zheng

Nanomaterials 2023, 13(14), 2088; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13142088 - 18 Jul 2023

Viewed by 914

Abstract

To overcome the disadvantages of the MoS₂ anode for LIBs in terms of low intrinsic conductivity, poor mechanical stability, and adverse reaction with electrolytes, a 3D multilevel heterostructure (VANS-MoS₂-CNTs) has been successfully prepared by a simple hydrothermal method followed by [...] Read more.

To overcome the disadvantages of the MoS₂ anode for LIBs in terms of low intrinsic conductivity, poor mechanical stability, and adverse reaction with electrolytes, a 3D multilevel heterostructure (VANS-MoS₂-CNTs) has been successfully prepared by a simple hydrothermal method followed by thermal treatment. VANS-MoS₂-CNTs are made up of 2D vertically aligned MoS₂ nanosheets (VANS) and 1D sandwich C-MoS₂-C nanotubes (CNTs). The sandwich-like nanotube is the core part, which is made up of the MoS₂ nanotube covered by carbon layers on both side surfaces. Due to the special heterostructure, VANS-MoS₂-CNTs have good conductivity, high structured stability, and excellent Li⁺/electron transport, resulting in high discharge capacity (1587 mAh/g at a current density of 0.1 A/g), excellent rate capacity (1330 and 730 mAh/g at current densities of 0.1 and 2 A/g, respectively), and good cyclic stability (1270 mAh/g at 0.1 A/g after 100 cycles). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Nanomaterials for Efficient Energy Conversion and Storage)

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11 pages, 32784 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

The Facile Synthesis of Hollow CuS Microspheres Assembled from Nanosheets for Li-Ion Storage and Photocatalytic Applications

by Yiyang Zhao, Yonghui Shao, Hao Chen, Xinwen Luo and Xiaodi Liu

Nanomaterials 2023, 13(9), 1505; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13091505 - 28 Apr 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1128

Abstract

Herein, well-defined hollow CuS microspheres assembled from nanosheets were successfully synthesized through a facile solvothermal method. Hollow CuS microspheres have an average diameter of 1.5 μm; moreover, the primary CuS nanosheets have an ultrathin thickness of about 10 nm and are bound by [...] Read more.

Herein, well-defined hollow CuS microspheres assembled from nanosheets were successfully synthesized through a facile solvothermal method. Hollow CuS microspheres have an average diameter of 1.5 μm; moreover, the primary CuS nanosheets have an ultrathin thickness of about 10 nm and are bound by {0001} polar facets. When used as anodes for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), hollow CuS microspheres exhibit excellent electrochemical properties, including a large discharge capacity (610.1 mAh g⁻¹ at 0.5 C), an excellent rate capability (207.6 and 143.4 mAh g⁻¹ at 1 and 5 C), and a superior cyclic stability (196.3 mAh g⁻¹ at 1 C after 500 cycles). When used as photocatalysts for Rhodamine B (RhB), hollow CuS microspheres can degrade more than 99% of the initial RhB within 21 min. These excellent Li-ion storage properties and photocatalytical performances are attributed to their unique hierarchical hollow structure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Nanomaterials for Efficient Energy Conversion and Storage)

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19 pages, 9385 KiB

Open AccessArticle

ZnS–rGO/CNF Free-Standing Anodes for SIBs: Improved Electrochemical Performance at High C-Rate

by Debora Maria Conti, Cristina Fusaro, Giovanna Bruni, Pietro Galinetto, Benedetta Albini, Chiara Milanese, Vittorio Berbenni and Doretta Capsoni

Nanomaterials 2023, 13(7), 1160; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13071160 - 24 Mar 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1202

Abstract

ZnS–graphene composites (ZnSGO) were synthesized by a hydrothermal process and loaded onto carbon nanofibers (CNFs) by electrospinning (ZnS–GO/CNF), to obtain self-standing anodes for SIBs. The characterization techniques (XRPD, SEM, TEM, EDS, TGA, and Raman spectroscopy) confirm that the ZnS nanocrystals (10 nm) with [...] Read more.

ZnS–graphene composites (ZnSGO) were synthesized by a hydrothermal process and loaded onto carbon nanofibers (CNFs) by electrospinning (ZnS–GO/CNF), to obtain self-standing anodes for SIBs. The characterization techniques (XRPD, SEM, TEM, EDS, TGA, and Raman spectroscopy) confirm that the ZnS nanocrystals (10 nm) with sphalerite structure covered by the graphene sheets were successfully synthesized. In the ZnS–GO/CNF anodes, the active material is homogeneously dispersed in the CNFs’ matrix and the ordered carbon source mainly resides in the graphene component. Two self-standing ZnS–GO/CNF anodes (active material amount: 11.3 and 24.9 wt%) were electrochemically tested and compared to a tape-casted ZnS–GO example prepared by conventional methods (active material amount: 70 wt%). The results demonstrate improved specific capacity at high C-rate for the free-standing anodes compared to the tape-casted example (69.93 and 92.59 mAh g⁻¹ at 5 C for 11.3 and 24.9 wt% free-standing anodes, respectively, vs. 50 mAh g⁻¹ for tape-casted). The 24.9 wt% ZnS–GO/CNF anode gives the best cycling performances: we obtained capacities of 255–400 mAh g⁻¹ for 200 cycles and coulombic efficiencies ≥ 99% at 0.5 C, and of 80–90 mAh g⁻¹ for additional 50 cycles at 5 C. The results suggest that self-standing electrodes with improved electrochemical performances at high C-rates can be prepared by a feasible and simple strategy: ex situ synthesis of the active material and addition to the carbon precursor for electrospinning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Nanomaterials for Efficient Energy Conversion and Storage)

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16 pages, 3313 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Oxygen-Containing Functional Groups on the Electrochemical Performance of Activated Carbon for EDLCs

by Ju-Hwan Kim, Seok-Hwi Kim, Byung-Joo Kim and Hye-Min Lee

Nanomaterials 2023, 13(2), 262; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano13020262 - 07 Jan 2023

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1929

Abstract

Activated carbon (AC) is used in commercial electric double-layer capacitors (EDLC) as electrode active material owing to its favorable properties. However, oxygen functional groups (OFGs) present in AC reduce the lifespan of EDLCs. Thus, we investigated the correlation between the OFGs in AC [...] Read more.

Activated carbon (AC) is used in commercial electric double-layer capacitors (EDLC) as electrode active material owing to its favorable properties. However, oxygen functional groups (OFGs) present in AC reduce the lifespan of EDLCs. Thus, we investigated the correlation between the OFGs in AC and their electrochemical characteristics. Samples were prepared by heat-treating commercial AC at 300 °C–900 °C for 1 h under two gas atmospheres (N₂ and 4% H₂/N₂ mixed gas). The textural properties were studied, and the reduction characteristics of AC under Ar and H₂/Ar mixed gas atmospheres were investigated. Additionally, changes in the OFGs with respect to the heat-treatment conditions were examined via X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The specific surface areas of AC-N and AC-H were 2220–2040 and 2220–2090 m²/g, respectively. Importantly, the samples treated in hydrogen gas exhibited a higher yield than those treated in nitrogen while maintaining their pore characteristics. Additionally, the electrochemical performance of the AC was significantly enhanced after the reduction process; the specific capacitance increased from 62.1 F/g to 81.6 F/g (at 0.1 A/g). Thus, heat treatment in hydrogen gas improves the electrochemical performance of EDLCs without destroying the pore characteristics of AC. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Nanomaterials for Efficient Energy Conversion and Storage)

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11 pages, 2277 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Analysis of Electrochemical Performance with Dispersion Degree of CNTs in Electrode According to Ultrasonication Process and Slurry Viscosity for Lithium-Ion Battery

by Jaehong Choi, Chaewon Lee, Sungwoo Park, Tom James Embleton, Kyungmok Ko, Mina Jo, Kashif Saleem Saqib, Jeongsik Yun, Minki Jo, Yoonkook Son and Pilgun Oh

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(23), 4271; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12234271 - 01 Dec 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2749

Abstract

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) continue to dominate the battery market with their efficient energy storage abilities and their ongoing development. However, at high charge/discharge C-rates their electrochemical performance decreases significantly. To improve the power density properties of LIBs, it is important to form a [...] Read more.

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) continue to dominate the battery market with their efficient energy storage abilities and their ongoing development. However, at high charge/discharge C-rates their electrochemical performance decreases significantly. To improve the power density properties of LIBs, it is important to form a uniform electron transfer network in the cathode electrode via the addition of conductive additives. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with high crystallinity, high electrical conductivity, and high aspect ratio properties have gathered significant interest as cathode electrode conductive additives. However, due to the high aggregational properties of CNTs, it is difficult to form a uniform network for electron transfer within the electrode. In this study, to help fabricate electrodes with well-dispersed CNTs, various electrodes were prepared by controlling (i) the mixing order of the conductive material, binder, and active material, and (ii) the sonication process of the CNTs/NMP solution before the electrode slurry preparation. When the binder was mixed with a well sonicated CNTs/NMP solution, the CNTs uniformly adsorbed to the then added cathode material of LiNi_0.6Co_0.2Mn_0.2O₂ and were well-dispersed to form a flowing uniform network. This electrode fabrication process achieved > 98.74% capacity retention after 50 cycles at 5C via suppressed polarization at high current densities and a more reversible H1-M phase transition of the active material. Our study presents a novel design benchmark for the fabricating of electrodes applying well-dispersed CNTs, which can facilitate the application of LIBs in high current density applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Nanomaterials for Efficient Energy Conversion and Storage)

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17 pages, 3345 KiB

Open AccessArticle

WS₂ Nanosheet Loaded Silicon-Oxycarbide Electrode for Sodium and Potassium Batteries

by Sonjoy Dey and Gurpreet Singh

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(23), 4185; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12234185 - 25 Nov 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1689

Abstract

Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) such as the WS₂ have been widely studied as potential electrode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIB) owing to TMDs’ layered morphology and reversible conversion reaction with the alkali metals between 0 to 2 V (v/s Li/Li⁺) [...] Read more.

Transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) such as the WS₂ have been widely studied as potential electrode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIB) owing to TMDs’ layered morphology and reversible conversion reaction with the alkali metals between 0 to 2 V (v/s Li/Li⁺) potentials. However, works involving TMD materials as electrodes for sodium- (NIBs) and potassium-ion batteries (KIBs) are relatively few, mainly due to poor electrode performance arising from significant volume changes and pulverization by the larger size alkali-metal ions. Here, we show that Na⁺ and K⁺ cyclability in WS₂ TMD is improved by introducing WS₂ nanosheets in a chemically and mechanically robust matrix comprising precursor-derived ceramic (PDC) silicon oxycarbide (SiOC) material. The WS₂/SiOC composite in fibermat morphology was achieved via electrospinning followed by thermolysis of a polymer solution consisting of a polysiloxane (precursor to SiOC) dispersed with exfoliated WS₂ nanosheets. The composite electrode was successfully tested in Na-ion and K-ion half-cells as a working electrode, which rendered the first cycle charge capacity of 474.88 mAh g⁻¹ and 218.91 mAh g⁻¹, respectively. The synergistic effect of the composite electrode leads to higher capacity and improved coulombic efficiency compared to the neat WS₂ and neat SiOC materials in these cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Nanomaterials for Efficient Energy Conversion and Storage)

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9 pages, 3728 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Storage of Lithium-Ion by Phase Engineered MoO₃ Homojunctions

by Dickon H. L. Ng, Sheng Li, Jun Li, Jinning Huang, Yingxue Cui, Jiabiao Lian and Chuan Wang

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(21), 3762; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12213762 - 26 Oct 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1210

Abstract

With high theoretical specific capacity, the low-cost MoO₃ is known to be a promising anode for lithium-ion batteries. However, low electronic conductivity and sluggish reaction kinetics have limited its ability for lithium ion storage. To improve this, the phase engineering approach is [...] Read more.

With high theoretical specific capacity, the low-cost MoO₃ is known to be a promising anode for lithium-ion batteries. However, low electronic conductivity and sluggish reaction kinetics have limited its ability for lithium ion storage. To improve this, the phase engineering approach is used to fabricate orthorhombic/monoclinic MoO₃ (α/h-MoO₃) homojunctions. The α/h-MoO₃ is found to have excessive hetero-phase interface. This not only creates more active sites in the MoO₃ for Li⁺ storage, it regulates local coordination environment and electronic structure, thus inducing a built-in electric field for boosting electron/ion transport. In using α/h-MoO₃, higher capacity (1094 mAh g⁻¹ at 0.1 A g⁻¹) and rate performance (406 mAh g⁻¹ at 5.0 A g⁻¹) are obtained than when using only the single phase h-MoO₃ or α-MoO₃. This work provides an option to use α/h-MoO₃ hetero-phase homojunction in LIBs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Nanomaterials for Efficient Energy Conversion and Storage)

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11 pages, 2432 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Nb and Ni Nanoparticles Anchored on N-Doped Carbon Nanofiber Membrane as Self-Supporting Anode for High-Rate Lithium-Ion Batteries

by Yezheng Zhang, Shan Zhang, Shuo Zhao, Yingxue Cui, Jiabiao Lian and Guochun Li

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(21), 3724; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12213724 - 23 Oct 2022

Viewed by 1179

Abstract

A flexible N-doped carbon nanofiber membrane loaded with Nb and Ni nanoparticles (Nb/Ni@NC) was prepared using electrospinning technology and a subsequent thermal annealing method and used as a self-supporting anode material for lithium-ion batteries. The Nb/Ni@NC nanofiber membrane had excellent flexibility and could [...] Read more.

A flexible N-doped carbon nanofiber membrane loaded with Nb and Ni nanoparticles (Nb/Ni@NC) was prepared using electrospinning technology and a subsequent thermal annealing method and used as a self-supporting anode material for lithium-ion batteries. The Nb/Ni@NC nanofiber membrane had excellent flexibility and could be folded and bent at will without fragmentation and wrinkling; the nanofibers also had a uniform and controllable morphology with a diameter of 300–400 nm. The electrochemical results showed that the flexible Nb/Ni@NC electrode could deliver a high discharge capacity of 378.7 mAh g⁻¹ after 200 cycles at 0.2 A g⁻¹ and an initial coulombic efficiency of 67.7%, which was higher than that of the pure flexible NC anode in contrast. Moreover, a reversible discharge capacity of 203.6 mAh g⁻¹ after 480 cycles at 1.0 A g⁻¹ was achieved by the flexible Nb/Ni@NC electrode with a capacity decay for each cycle of only 0.075%, which showed an excellent rate capability and cycling stability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Nanomaterials for Efficient Energy Conversion and Storage)

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16 pages, 2775 KiB

Open AccessArticle

First-Principles Insights on the Formation Mechanism of Innermost Layers of Solid Electrolyte Interphases on Carbon Anodes for Lithium-Ion Batteries

by Qing Peng

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(20), 3654; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12203654 - 18 Oct 2022

Viewed by 1465

Abstract

A solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) plays an essential role in the functionality and service life of ion batteries, where the structure and formation mechanism are still in the midst. Here, we investigate the initial decomposition and reactions of ethylene carbonate (EC) on the [...] Read more.

A solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) plays an essential role in the functionality and service life of ion batteries, where the structure and formation mechanism are still in the midst. Here, we investigate the initial decomposition and reactions of ethylene carbonate (EC) on the surface of a graphite anode using first-principles calculations. EC initially decomposes via the homolytic ring opening with the product of radical anion CH₂CH₂OCO₂⁻. Bonding with Li, it forms a co-plane structure of CH₂CH₂OCO₂Li, with a binding energy of 1.35 eV. The adsorption energy is −0.91 eV and −0.24 eV on the graphite zigzag edge surface and basal surface, respectively. Two CH₂CH₂OCO₂Li molecules react to form a two-head structure of lithium ethylene dicarbonate (CH₂OCO₂Li)₂, namely LEDC, which further forms a network preferring zigzag edge surfaces. Our results suggest that the first and innermost layers of the solid electrolyte interphase are CH₂CH₂OCO₂Li sticking and networking on the zigzag edges of the surfaces of graphite anodes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Nanomaterials for Efficient Energy Conversion and Storage)

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11 pages, 3107 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sb Nanoparticles Embedded in the N-Doped Carbon Fibers as Binder-Free Anode for Flexible Li-Ion Batteries

by Xin Wang, Nanjun Jia, Jianwei Li, Pengbo Liu, Xinsheng Zhao, Yuxiao Lin, Changqing Sun and Wei Qin

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(18), 3093; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12183093 - 06 Sep 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1454

Abstract

Antimony (Sb) is considered a promising anode for Li-ion batteries (LIBs) because of its high theoretical specific capacity and safe Li-ion insertion potential; however, the LIBs suffer from dramatic volume variation. The volume expansion results in unstable electrode/electrolyte interphase and active material exfoliation [...] Read more.

Antimony (Sb) is considered a promising anode for Li-ion batteries (LIBs) because of its high theoretical specific capacity and safe Li-ion insertion potential; however, the LIBs suffer from dramatic volume variation. The volume expansion results in unstable electrode/electrolyte interphase and active material exfoliation during lithiation and delithiation processes. Designing flexible free-standing electrodes can effectively inhibit the exfoliation of the electrode materials from the current collector. However, the generally adopted methods for preparing flexible free-standing electrodes are complex and high cost. To address these issues, we report the synthesis of a unique Sb nanoparticle@N-doped porous carbon fiber structure as a free-standing electrode via an electrospinning method and surface passivation. Such a hierarchical structure possesses a robust framework with rich voids and a stable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) film, which can well accommodate the mechanical strain and avoid electrode cracks and pulverization during lithiation/delithiation processes. When evaluated as an anode for LIBs, the as-prepared nanoarchitectures exhibited a high initial reversible capacity (675 mAh g⁻¹) and good cyclability (480 mAh g⁻¹ after 300 cycles at a current density of 400 mA g⁻¹), along with a superior rate capability (420 mA h g⁻¹ at 1 A g⁻¹). This work could offer a simple, effective, and efficient approach to improve flexible and free-standing alloy-based anode materials for high performance Li-ion batteries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Nanomaterials for Efficient Energy Conversion and Storage)

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11 pages, 2146 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High-Value Utilization of Silicon Cutting Waste and Excrementum Bombycis to Synthesize Silicon–Carbon Composites as Anode Materials for Li-Ion Batteries

by Hengsong Ji, Jun Li, Sheng Li, Yingxue Cui, Zhijin Liu, Minggang Huang, Chun Xu, Guochun Li, Yan Zhao and Huaming Li

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(16), 2875; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12162875 - 21 Aug 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1765

Abstract

Silicon-based photovoltaic technology is helpful in reducing the cost of power generation; however, it suffers from economic losses and environmental pollution caused by silicon cutting waste. Herein, a hydrothermal method accompanied by heat treatment is proposed to take full advantage of the photovoltaic [...] Read more.

Silicon-based photovoltaic technology is helpful in reducing the cost of power generation; however, it suffers from economic losses and environmental pollution caused by silicon cutting waste. Herein, a hydrothermal method accompanied by heat treatment is proposed to take full advantage of the photovoltaic silicon cutting waste and biomass excrementum bombycis to fabricate flake-like porous Si@C (FP-Si@C) composite anodes for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). The resulting FP-Si@C composite with a meso-macroporous structure can buffer the severe volume changes and facilitate electrolyte penetration. Meanwhile, the slightly graphitic carbon with high electrical conductivity and mechanical strength tightly surrounds the Si nanoflakes, which not only contributes to the ion/electron transport but also maintains the electrode structural integrity during the repeated lithiation/delithiation process. Accordingly, the synergistic effect of the unique structure of FP-Si@C composite contributes to a high discharge specific capacity of 1322 mAh g⁻¹ at 0.1 A g⁻¹, superior cycle stability with a capacity retention of 70.8% after 100 cycles, and excellent rate performance with a reversible capacity of 406 mAh g⁻¹ at 1.0 A g⁻¹. This work provides an easy and cost-effective approach to achieving the high-value application of photovoltaic silicon cutting waste, as well as obtaining high-performance Si-based anodes for LIBs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Nanomaterials for Efficient Energy Conversion and Storage)

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7 pages, 2096 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Facile Synthesis of Hierarchical CoSeO₃‧2H₂O Nanoflowers Assembled by Nanosheets as a Novel Anode Material for High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries

by Xiao-Xu Ji, Qing-Huai Zhao, Hao Chen, Xin-Wei Luo, Yi Shang and Xiao-Di Liu

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(14), 2474; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12142474 - 19 Jul 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1287

Abstract

As novel anodic materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), transitional metal selenites can transform into metal oxide/selenide heterostructures in the first cycle, which helps to enhance the Li⁺ storage performance, especially in terms of high discharge capacity. Herein, well-defined hierarchical CoSeO₃‧2H [...] Read more.

As novel anodic materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), transitional metal selenites can transform into metal oxide/selenide heterostructures in the first cycle, which helps to enhance the Li⁺ storage performance, especially in terms of high discharge capacity. Herein, well-defined hierarchical CoSeO₃‧2H₂O nanoflowers assembled using 10 nm-thick nanosheets are successfully synthesized via a facile one-step hydrothermal method. When used as anodic materials for LIBs, the CoSeO₃‧2H₂O nanoflowers exhibit a considerably high discharge capacity of 1064.1 mAh g⁻¹ at a current density of 0.1 A g⁻¹. In addition, the obtained anode possesses good rate capability and cycling stability. Owing to the superior electrochemical properties, the CoSeO₃‧2H₂O nanoflowers would serve as promising anodic materials for high-performance LIBs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Nanomaterials for Efficient Energy Conversion and Storage)

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15 pages, 3680 KiB

Open AccessArticle

In Situ Decoration of ZnSnO₃ Nanosheets on the Surface of Hollow Zn₂SnO₄ Octahedrons for Enhanced Solar Energy Application

by Zhengdao Li, Kecheng Liu, Ruixue Sun, Chuanyun Yang and Xiaodi Liu

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(12), 2124; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12122124 - 20 Jun 2022

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1810

Abstract

Hierarchical ZnSnO₃/Zn₂SnO₄ porous hollow octahedrons were constructed using the method of combining the acid etching process with the in situ decoration technique for photovoltaic and photocatalytic applications. The composite was used as photoanode of the dye-sensitized solar cells [...] Read more.

Hierarchical ZnSnO₃/Zn₂SnO₄ porous hollow octahedrons were constructed using the method of combining the acid etching process with the in situ decoration technique for photovoltaic and photocatalytic applications. The composite was used as photoanode of the dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), an overall 4.31% photovoltaic conversion efficiency was obtained, nearly a 73.1% improvement over the DSSCs that used Zn₂SnO₄ solid octahedrons. The composite was also determined to be a high-performance photocatalyst for the removal of heavy metal ion Cr (VI) and antibiotic ciprofloxacin (CIP) in single and co-existing systems under simulated sunlight irradiation. It was remarkable that the composite displayed good reusability and stability in a co-existing system, and the simultaneous removal performance could be restored by a simple acid treatment. These improvements of solar energy utilization were ascribed to the synergetic effect of the hierarchical porous hollow morphology, the introduction of ZnSnO₃ nanosheets, and the heterojunction formed between ZnSnO₃ and Zn₂SnO₄, which could improve light harvesting capacity, expedite electron transport and charge-separation efficiencies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Nanomaterials for Efficient Energy Conversion and Storage)

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12 pages, 3054 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Free-Standing α-MoO₃/MXene Composite Anode for High-Performance Lithium Storage

by Zihan Guo, Dong Wang, Zhiwei Wang, Yanfang Gao and Jinrong Liu

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(9), 1422; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12091422 - 21 Apr 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2013

Abstract

Replacing the commercial graphite anode in Li-ion batteries with pseudocapacitor materials is an effective way to obtain high-performance energy storage devices. α-MoO₃ is an attractive pseudocapacitor electrode material due to its theoretical capacity of 1117 mAh g⁻¹. Nevertheless, its low [...] Read more.

Replacing the commercial graphite anode in Li-ion batteries with pseudocapacitor materials is an effective way to obtain high-performance energy storage devices. α-MoO₃ is an attractive pseudocapacitor electrode material due to its theoretical capacity of 1117 mAh g⁻¹. Nevertheless, its low conductivity greatly limits its electrochemical performance. MXene is often used as a 2D conductive substrate and flexible framework for the development of a non-binder electrode because of its unparalleled electronic conductivity and excellent mechanical flexibility. Herein, a free-standing α-MoO₃/MXene composite anode with a high specific capacity and an outstanding rate capability was prepared using a green and simple method. The resultant α-MoO₃/MXene composite electrode combines the advantages of each of the two components and possesses improved Li⁺ diffusion kinetics. In particular, this α-MoO₃/MXene free-standing electrode exhibited a high Li⁺ storage capacity (1008 mAh g⁻¹ at 0.1 A g⁻¹) and an outstanding rate capability (172 mAh g⁻¹ at 10 A g⁻¹), as well as a much extended cycling stability (500 cycles at 0.5 A g⁻¹). Furthermore, a full cell was fabricated using commercial LiFePO₄ as the cathode, which displayed a high Li⁺ storage capacity of 160 mAh g⁻¹ with an outstanding rate performance (48 mAh g⁻¹ at 1 A g⁻¹). We believe that our research reveals new possibilities for the development of an advanced free-standing electrode from pseudocapacitive materials for high-performance Li-ion storage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Nanomaterials for Efficient Energy Conversion and Storage)

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10 pages, 4442 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sawdust-Derived Activated Carbon with Hierarchical Pores for High-Performance Symmetric Supercapacitors

by Yan Zhou, Jun Li, Shilin Hu, Gujie Qian, Juanjuan Shi, Shengyun Zhao, Yulin Wang, Chuan Wang and Jiabiao Lian

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(5), 810; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12050810 - 28 Feb 2022

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 1927

Abstract

The recyclable utilization of waste biomass is increasingly important for the development of a sustainable society. Here, the sawdust-derived activated carbon (SD-AC) has been prepared via a convenient H₃PO₄-based activation method and further trialed as an electrode for use [...] Read more.

The recyclable utilization of waste biomass is increasingly important for the development of a sustainable society. Here, the sawdust-derived activated carbon (SD-AC) has been prepared via a convenient H₃PO₄-based activation method and further trialed as an electrode for use as a high-performance symmetric supercapacitor. The as-prepared SD-AC possesses a hierarchically porous structure with micropores (0.55 nm) and mesopores (2.58 nm), accounting for its high specific surface area of 621 m² g⁻¹, with a pore volume of 0.35 cm³ g⁻¹. Such a hierarchically porous structure can offer a favorable pathway for fast ion penetration and transportation, enhancing its electrochemical performance. As a result, the SD-AC electrode exhibits a maximum specific capacitance of up to 244.1 F g⁻¹ at 1.0 A g⁻¹, a high rate capability (129.06 F g⁻¹ at 20 A g⁻¹), and an excellent cycling performance, with 87% retention over 10,000 cycles at 10 A g⁻¹. Of particular note is that the SD-AC-based symmetric supercapacitor achieves a maximum energy density of 19.9 Wh kg⁻¹ at the power density of 650 W kg⁻¹, with a long-term cycle lifespan. This work showcases the recyclable utilization of waste biomass for the preparation of high-value activated carbon for efficient energy storage. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Nanomaterials for Efficient Energy Conversion and Storage)

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13 pages, 3922 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Facile Synthesis of Microporous Carbons from Biomass Waste as High Performance Supports for Dehydrogenation of Formic Acid

by Tingting Cao, Jinke Cheng, Jun Ma, Chunliang Yang, Mengqin Yao, Fei Liu, Min Deng, Xiaodan Wang and Yuan Ren

Nanomaterials 2021, 11(11), 3028; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano11113028 - 11 Nov 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1901

Abstract

Formic acid (FA) is found to be a potential candidate for the storage of hydrogen. For dehydrogenation of FA, the supports of our catalysts were acquired by conducting ZnCl₂ treatment and carbonation for biomass waste. The texture and surface properties significantly affected [...] Read more.

Formic acid (FA) is found to be a potential candidate for the storage of hydrogen. For dehydrogenation of FA, the supports of our catalysts were acquired by conducting ZnCl₂ treatment and carbonation for biomass waste. The texture and surface properties significantly affected the size and dispersion of Pd and its interaction with the support so as to cause the superior catalytic performance of catalysts. Microporous carbon obtained by carbonization of ZnCl₂ activated peanut shells (C_PS-ZnCl₂) possessing surface areas of 629 m²·g⁻¹ and a micropore rate of 73.5%. For ZnCl₂ activated melon seed (C_MS-ZnCl₂), the surface area and micropore rate increased to 1081 m²·g⁻¹ and 80.0%, respectively. In addition, the introduction of ZnCl₂ also caused the increase in surface O content and reduced the acidity of the catalyst. The results represented that C_MS-ZnCl₂ with uniform honeycomb morphology displayed the best properties, and the as-prepared Pd/C_MS-ZnCl₂ catalyst afforded 100% hydrogen selectivity as well as excellent catalytic activity with an initial high turnover number (TON) value of 28.3 at 30 °C and 100.1 at 60 °C. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Nanomaterials for Efficient Energy Conversion and Storage)

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Review

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18 pages, 2203 KiB

Open AccessReview

Improvement Strategies for Stability and Efficiency of Perovskite Solar Cells

by Hongliang Liu, Ling Xiang, Peng Gao, Dan Wang, Jirui Yang, Xinman Chen, Shuti Li, Yanli Shi, Fangliang Gao and Yong Zhang

Nanomaterials 2022, 12(19), 3295; https://doi.org/10.3390/nano12193295 - 22 Sep 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 5495

Abstract

Recently, perovskites have garnered great attention owing to their outstanding characteristics, such as tunable bandgap, rapid absorption reaction, low cost and solution-based processing, leading to the development of high-quality and low-cost photovoltaic devices. However, the key challenges, such as stability, large-area processing, and [...] Read more.

Recently, perovskites have garnered great attention owing to their outstanding characteristics, such as tunable bandgap, rapid absorption reaction, low cost and solution-based processing, leading to the development of high-quality and low-cost photovoltaic devices. However, the key challenges, such as stability, large-area processing, and toxicity, hinder the commercialization of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). In recent years, several studies have been carried out to overcome these issues and realize the commercialization of PSCs. Herein, the stability and photovoltaic efficiency improvement strategies of perovskite solar cells are briefly summarized from several directions, such as precursor doping, selection of hole/electron transport layer, tandem solar cell structure, and graphene-based PSCs. According to reference and analysis, we present our perspective on the future research directions and challenges of PSCs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Functional Nanomaterials for Efficient Energy Conversion and Storage)

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