Core–Shell Structure of Mo-Based Nanoparticle/Carbon Nanotube/Amorphous Carbon Composites as High-Performance Anodes for Lithium-Ion Batteries

Abstract

For large-scale energy storage devices, lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are leading candidates for applications in electric vehicles. However, further research efforts are needed to maximize their capacity and stability. In this report, a core–shell structure of molybdenum-based nanoparticle/carbon nanotube (CNT)/carbon is synthesized successfully through facile hydrothermal/annealing processes and applies for anode materials in LIBs. The good conductivity of the CNT core and the uniform nanoparticle of molybdenum-based compounds in the buffer matrix of the amorphous carbon shell result in a high capacity of 810 mA h g–1 for anode LIBs, an excellent stability for 500 cycles, and a Coulombic efficiency of ∼98%. Our study reveals that ultrafine nanoparticles of molybdenum-based compounds can enhance the pseudocapacitance. The conductivity of the CNT is the main contributor to the improved stability for lithium-ion storage at a high current density. This approach can be used for further improvement of structural design and material synthesis for anode LIBs.