Facile formation of a nanostructured NiP2@C material for advanced lithium-ion battery anode using adsorption property of metal–organic framework

Abstract

Nanostructured NiP₂@C was synthesized by a facile approach via calcination of a Ni-based metal–organic-framework (Ni-MOF-74) with adsorptive red phosphorus, and was tested as an anode material for lithium ion batteries. NiP₂ nanoparticles are successfully embedded in situ in porous carbon matrix, constructing crosslinked channels for lithium ion diffusion. The in situ introduction of porous carbon round NiP₂ nanoparticles greatly enhances the electronic conductivity. Benefiting from the advantages of porous carbon, the nanostructured NiP₂@C electrode material showed excellent electrochemical performance with high reversibility, high rate capability, and long-term cycling stability.