Controllable Preparation and Sodium Storage Properties of Sb2Te3–Te Heterojunction

Abstract

Antimony-based materials possess high theoretical capacities and suitable potential, which could be promising anode materials for sodium-ion batteries (SIB). However, poor stabilities and sluggish kinetics are drawbacks. Building heterojunction is an ideal method to solve these issues. Its unique structure develops internal electric fields spontaneously to boost the charge transport and relieve stress. Nevertheless, the controllable preparation of face-to-face (2D) heterojunctions is still hard-pressed. Herein, [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] nanoheterojunctions, which consist of two-dimensional [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] nanoblades attached to a one-dimensional Te nanorod, are fabricated through a two-step solvothermal method. Among that, the density of nanoblades is adjustable through the engineering feed ratio. When employed as anodes for SIBs, [Formula: see text]–[Formula: see text] nanoheterojunctions display a reversible capacity of 463.2[Formula: see text]mAh[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text] at 100[Formula: see text]mA[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text]. Even a capacity of 305.5[Formula: see text]mAh[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text] remains after 1000 cycles under a high current of 1.5[Formula: see text]A[Formula: see text]g[Formula: see text]. Moreover, the density functional theory (DFT) calculations also identify the high conductivity of heterojunction. This work offers an effective way to design the structures and properties of heterojunctions, further expanding their application range.