A novel Li3P-VP nanocomposite fabricated by pulsed laser deposition as anode material for high-capacity lithium ion batteries

Li3P-VP nanocomposite has been formed by a homemade pulsed laser deposition route and its electrochemical characteristic with lithium is reported for the first time. It displays high lithium storage capability as electrode material for secondary lithium ion batteries. The Li3P-VP nanocomposite exhibits high specific discharge capacity of 1040.4mAhg−1 between 0.01 and 4.0V and the specific capacity can still maintain 95% after 50cycles. Ex situ transmission electron microscopy reveals that VP2 is generated from Li3P and VP after the first charging process to 4.0V, while Li3P and V are found to be the final discharge products. In the recharging process, VP and VP2 are formed as the delithiated products. [Display omitted] •Li3P-VP nanocomposite thin film was fabricated by PLD.•High capacity of 1040.4mAhg−1 was achieved and 95% was kept after 50cycles.•VP2 was generated from Li3P and VP after the first charging process to 4.0V.•Reversible conversion mechanism to V and Li3P was suggested for VP-VP2.