Electronic properties and storage capability of two-dimensional nitridosilicate MnSi2N4 from first-principles

Abstract

Through first-principles calculations, we successfully identified a two-dimensional layered nitridosilicate-MnSi2N4 in hexagonal structure, as a novel anode for lithium (Li) and sodium (Na) ion batteries. Phonon and molecular dynamics simulations manifest the favorable dynamic stability of MnSi2N4. The predicted material exhibits metallic behavior with high Young’s modulus of 457 GPa and aqueous insolubility. MnSi2N4 possesses low diffusion barrier for Li (0.32 eV) and Na (0.19 eV), as well as high storage capacity as an anode for Li (320 mAh g−1) and Na (160 mAh g−1) ion batteries, respectively. These properties, including excellent electronic conductivity, low diffusion barrier, and high storage capacity, enable MnSi2N4 a promising anode for Li and Na ion batteries.