A 3D interconnected NH4Fe0.6V2.4O7.4@C nanocomposite with superior sodium storage properties

Abstract

A novel 3D interconnected NH₄Fe_0.6V_2.4O_7.4@C nanocomposite was in situ synthesized through a facile hydrothermal reaction at low temperature (98 °C), and its electrochemical performance as a cathode for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) was investigated for the first time. Under the intercalation of Fe³⁺ and carbon-coating, as-prepared samples turned to 3D interconnected structures, which were composed of NH₄Fe_0.6V_2.4O_7.4 nanoparticles and carbon chains. The 3D interconnected NH₄Fe_0.6V_2.4O_7.4@0.5 wt%C nanocomposite exhibits a high discharge specific capacity of 306 mA h g⁻¹ at a current density of 20 mA g⁻¹ and a high-rate capacity of 130 mA h g⁻¹ at 0.4 A g⁻¹. The results of EIS and ex situ SEM indicated that the 3D interconnected NH₄Fe_0.6V_2.4O_7.4@0.5 wt%C nanocomposite possesses good electrical conductivity and structural stability. The ex situ XRD results suggest that NH₄Fe_0.6V_2.4O_7.4@0.5 wt%C undergoes a reversible insertion/de-insertion mechanism during a charge/discharge process. Our work demonstrates that the 3D interconnected NH₄Fe_0.6V_2.4O_7.4@C nanocomposite material could be considered as a potential cathode for sodium ion batteries.