Direct Synthesis of Bulk Boron-Doped Graphitic Carbon

Abstract

High Resolution Image Download MS PowerPoint Slide The single-step reaction of benzene and boron tribromide in a closed reactor at elevated temperature (800 °C) results in the synthesis of bulk boron-doped graphitic carbon. Materials of continuously tunable composition BC x ′ are accessible ( x ≥ 3), exhibiting the structure of a solid-solution of boron within turbostratic graphite ( G ′). Upon extended heat treatment or at higher temperatures, graphitic BC x ′ is leached of boron and undergoes a phase separation into boron carbide and graphite. Higher boron content is correlated with an increased maximum capacity for alkali metal ions, making graphitic BC x ′ a promising candidate anode material for emerging sodium-ion batteries.