KCoxMn1-x[Fe(CN)6]/Carbon nanotube composite as high capacity anode for Li-ion batteries

To explore inexpensive electrode materials with high energy density is urgent for developing next generation Li-ion batteries (LIBs). In this paper, a multi-metal Prussian blue analogue composited with carbon nanotube (KCoxMn1-x[Fe(CN)6]/CNT), synthesized via a simple solution precipitation method, is employed as the anode for LIBs, which exhibits superior electrochemical performance. When cycled at 0.1 A g?1, it delivers the reversible capacity up to 727.5 mA h g?1 during initial de-lithiation. In addition, this material presents excellent rate capability, yielding 452.3 and 408.7 mA h g?1 at 1 and 2 A g?1, respectively. The improved performance may be associated with the effective connection between CNT and CoMnHCF particles to enhance the charge-transfer kinetics and lower the electrical resistance. Regarding the charge/discharge mechanism, the full reduction of Co2+, Mn2+ and Fe2+ in the initial lithiation process and the redox of Fe2O3/Fe0, CoO/Co0, MnO/Mn0 in the subsequent cycles is proposed.

Automated summary

Researchers have successfully improved the reversible capacity and rate capability of LIBs by employing a multi-metal Prussian blue composite with carbon nanotubes as the anode. The enhanced performance may be attributed to the effective connection between CNT and CoMnHCF particles, which enhances charge-transfer kinetics and reduces electrical resistance. The charge/discharge mechanism involves the full reduction of Co2+, Mn2+, and Fe2+ in the initial lithiation process, followed by the redox of Fe2O3/Fe0, CoO/Co0, and MnO/Mn0 in subsequent cycles.