A robust redox-active hydrogen-bonded organic framework for rechargeable batteries

Abstract

Problems such as low cycle stability, poor ion mobility and weak conductivity hinder the development of organic electrode materials. Herein, one of the robust porous hydrogen-bonded organic frameworks (HOFs), CPHATN-1a, has been used as a cathode for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Redox-active hexaazatrinaphthalene (HATN) moieties were firmly fixed in this HOF by the hydrogen-bonded connection and tight π–π packing, providing a high capacity of 128 mA h g⁻¹ at 0.1C. In addition, this HOF-based LIB is able to deliver a high cycling stability with 102 mA h g⁻¹ after 500 cycles at 1.0C and a good rate capability (78 mA h g⁻¹ at 2.0C). Moreover, the Li storage mechanism associated with the HOF was systematically analysed by electrochemistry, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and powder X-ray diffraction. These results indicate the bright perspective of robust HOFs as organic cathode materials for LIBs.