Electrochemical performance of Sb.sub.2S.sub.3/CNT free-standing flexible anode for Li-ion batteries

• Published in: Journal of materials science 2019-05, Vol.54 (9), p.7110
• Main Authors: Elizabeth, Indu, Singh, Bhanu Pratap, Gopukumar, Sukumaran
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Batteries; Electrochemistry; Ethylene glycols; Glycols (Class of compounds); Powders (Particulate matter)
• ISSN: 0022-2461; 1573-4803
• DOI: 10.1007/s10853-018-03275-w

Sb.sub.2S.sub.3/CNT composite has been synthesized through ethylene glycol-mediated solvothermal process, and binderless, free-standing, flexible anode is prepared from the composite through vacuum filtration technique. The 1-D rod-like structure of Sb.sub.2S.sub.3 prevents self-agglomeration and exhibits well-guided charge-discharge kinetics and high surface area enhancing their electrochemical performance in Li-ion batteries. The introduction of CNTs to the Sb.sub.2S.sub.3 facilitates the preparation of free-standing flexible anodes as well as buffers the volume changes that occur during repeated cycling, thereby improving the cycling stability. The Sb.sub.2S.sub.3/CNT free-standing anode exhibits a high initial discharge capacity of 930 mAhg.sup.-1 at a current rate of 200 mAg.sup.-1. The anode also exhibits excellent lifetime stability and rate capability by cycling at different current rates up to 1200 mAg.sup.-1. Sb.sub.2S.sub.3/CNT anode gives a stable capacity of 443 mAhg.sup.-1 after 100 cycles at a current density of 200 mAg.sup.-1, while Sb.sub.2S.sub.3 rods deliver only 293 mAhg.sup.-1 after 100 cycles at the same current rate. This free-standing flexible Sb.sub.2S.sub.3/CNT anode is highly promising in comparison with conventional graphite powder anode.