A 3D flower-like VO2/MXene hybrid architecture with superior anode performance for sodium ion batteries

Abstract

VO₂ is considered to be a promising sodium ion storage material owing to its high specific capacity. However, the cycling stability and rate performance obtained from this material are still unsatisfactory, as a result of inferior electronic conductivity and significant volume expansion during the charge/discharge process. Herein, we report a VO₂/MXene hybrid having a three-dimensional (3D) flower-like architecture, synthesized via a facile hydrothermal method. Based on the synergistic effect of the VO₂ and MXene, this material exhibits superior sodium storage behavior. When used as an anode in sodium ion batteries, the as-prepared VO₂/MXene demonstrates a high reversible capacity of 280.9 mA h g⁻¹ at a current density of 0.1 A g⁻¹, exceptional cycling life (141% capacity retention over 200 cycles at 0.1 A g⁻¹) and good rate capacity (206 mA h g⁻¹ at 1.6 A g⁻¹). This VO₂/MXene hybrid therefore shows promise as an anode material for use in sodium ion batteries.