Understanding the capacity increase mechanism in MoO2/C anodes for Lithium-Ion batteries

Abstract

A facile and eco-friendly hydrothermal method, which does not employ surfactants, is used to synthesize MoO2/C as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries. Our approach overcomes kinetic barrier associated with the conversion reaction. The morphological analysis reveals that primary particles of MoO2/C are individual crystals forming secondary nanoparticles, which aggregate into tertiary micron-sized particles. This unique morphology plays a crucial role in enhancing the kinetics of lithium storage. It facilitates a gradual conversion reaction during the cycling process, even at ambient temperatures. The gradual nature of the conversion reaction of MoO2 upon cycling is clearly evidenced from the observed morphologies. These findings are comprehensively supported by thorough electrochemical investigations and analyses, which combined demonstrate the structural and electrochemical properties of the produced MoO2/C.