Two-Dimensional Ti3C2TX/CMK-5 nanocomposite as high performance anodes for lithium batteries

Abstract

Nowadays developing advanced new materials for energy storage devices is urgent. MXenes, a new member of 2-dimensioal metal carbides, have attracted increasing attention in Li-ion batteries. Ti3C2TX, was successfully synthesized for the first time, by etching Ti3SiC2 MAX phase at 50 °C for 120 h. Analysis of X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy along with energy dispersive spectra revealed our fully nanolayer structure with high purity. But like as other MXene-based electrodes, restacking the nanosheets can impede their electrochemical performances. For this reason, herein we develop a new approach by introduction of mesoporous carbon CMK-5, into MXene powders, using high energy wet ball milling process. The as-fabricated Ti3C2TX/CMK-5 nanocomposite significantly improved reversible capacity in contrast to pure Ti3C2TX, as the Ti3C2TX/CMK-5 electrode, exhibit reversible capacity of 342 mAh g−1 at 1C after 100 cycles, compared to pristine Ti3C2TX electrode which shows the capacity of 121.7 mAh g−1. This good electrochemical performance can be attributed to highly conductive and stable structure improved surface area which facile intercalation and de-intercalation of Li and store more Li ions. As explained, this structure has a high potential as anode of next generation of Li-ion batteries with high energy and power density.