Large-scale synthesis of porous Ni2P nanosheets for lithium secondary batteries

Porous Ni2P nanosheets were synthesized via a facile organometallic method based on Ni nanosheet template. These Ni2P nanosheets exhibit an extremely thin thickness of about 3 nm and a high Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) surface area due to their highly porous structure. As promising anode materials for lithium ion batteries, these nanosheets present a reversible discharge capacity of 379.8 mAh g(-1) after 50 cycles, as well as a good rate capability. The improved electrochemical performances of Ni2P nanosheet electrodes are attributed to the porous and thin sheet structure, resulting in better contact between the active material and electrolyte. Importantly, the thin porous Ni2P sheets would lead to a short diffusion length of lithium ions.