High rate and durable, binder free anode based on silicon loaded MoO3 nanoplatelets

In order to make fast-charging batteries a reality for electric vehicles, durable, more energy dense and high-current density resistant anodes need to be developed. With such purpose, a low lithiation potential of 0.2 V vs. Li/Li+ for MoO3 nanoplatelet arrays is reported here for anodes in a lithium ion battery. The composite material here presented affords elevated charge capacity while at the same time withstands rapid cycling for longer periods of time. Li2MoO4 and Li1.333Mo0.666O2 were identified as the products of lithiation of pristine MoO3 nanoplatelets and silicon-decorated MoO3, respectively, accounting for lower than previously reported lithiation potentials. MoO3 nanoplatelet arrays were deposited using hot-wire chemical vapor deposition. Due to excellent voltage compatibility, composite lithium ion battery anodes comprising molybdenum oxide nanoplatelets decorated with silicon nanoparticles (0.3% by wt.) were prepared using an ultrasonic spray. Silicon decorated MoO3 nanoplatelets exhibited enhanced capacity of 1037 mAh g(-1) with exceptional cyclablity when charged/discharged at high current densities of 10 A g(-1).