Self-assembly of symmetric tetramethylcucurbit[6]uril with phosphomolybdic acid: A stable anode material with lithium-storage properties

Here, a new hybrid material was prepared by the self-assembly of symmetric tetramethylcucurbit [6]uril (TMeQ [6]) and Keggin-type phosphomolybdic acid (PMA). The driving force of TMeQ [6] and PMA self-assembly was the outer-surface interactions of cucurbit[n]uril, i.e., electrostatic interactions between the positively-charged electric outer surface of TMeQ [6] and the PMA anion. The TMeQ [6]-PMA hybrid was stable and maintained the redox properties of PMA. As an electrode material, it could undergo multi-electron redox reactions and showed good structural stability and electrochemical performance. Moreover, the porous structure of the TMeQ [6]-PMA hybrid gave it a large specific surface area and the ability to store Li/Li+, which gives it potential application prospects as an anode material in lithium-ion batteries. [Display omitted] •The TMeQ [6]-PMA hybrid has the properties of stable and redox.•The hybrid has a large specific surface area and the ability to store Li/Li+.•The hybrid has the potential application prospect as anode material for LIBs.