Tailoring interfacial interaction in GaN@NG heterojunction via electron/ion bridges for enhanced lithium-ion storage performance

In this paper, gallium nitride (GaN) nanoparticles is synthesized on the nitrogen-doped graphene (NG) (GaN@NG). X-ray absorption fine structure (XAFS) shows the distinct interfacial interaction (Ga-N/N-C). This well-designed GaN@NG shows good reversible capacity (793.2 mAh/g at 0.1 A/g) and cycling durability with 98.5 % capacity retention at 2.0 A/g after 2000 cycles. Both DFT analysis and electrochemical kinetic analysis reveal that the configuration of intriguing electron and ion bridges is able to control and tailor the interfacial interaction via the interfacial coupled chemical bonds in GaN@NG heterojunction. Such electron/ion bridges can enhance the interfacial charge transfer kinetics and prevent pulverization/aggregation via the ion/electron channel during the cycling. As expected, the lithium-ion full cell (LiFePO4/C//GaN@NG) exhibits impressive energy and power densities and maintains superior cycling stability. This electron/ion bridges-related structural engineering strategy can open opportunities for the traditional electrode material to achieve the high-performance lithium ion storage and beyond.

Automated summary

In this study, gallium nitride nanoparticles were successfully synthesized and combined with nitrogen-doped graphene. The results show that the composite material exhibits excellent reversible capacity and cycling stability. Analysis reveals that the interfacial coupled chemical bonds can control and tailor the interfacial interaction. This structural engineering strategy opens up new opportunities for achieving high-performance lithium ion storage with traditional electrode materials.