Three-dimensional carbonaceous for potassium ion batteries anode to boost rate and cycle life performance

Abstract

Potassium-ion batteries (KIBs) are considered to be better alternative to lithium-ion batteries due to its high energy density, stability and safety. However, the problems of fast capacity declining at longtime recycling and poor storage capacity prevent its practical use. In this study, we report the development of 3-dimensional (3D) carbonaceous for KIBs anode that boost rate and cycle life performance. A simple method for designing an amorphous 3D carbon material of KIBs anode with superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) stripped from the baby diaper was fabricated with higher efficiency and environmentally friend. The 3D SAP porous carbon material can be obtained by simple carbonization and reactivation. Electrochemical measurements show that, a reversible potassium storage capacity of 270.4 mAh g−1 at the current density of 50 mA g−1 after 100 cycles, which is higher specific capacity than those of the reported undoped carbon nanomaterials. At the same time, at a current density of 1000 mA g−1, the electrode material also showed extremely excellent cycle stability with discharge capacity of 161.7 mAh g−1 after 2000 cycles.