Mesh-like LiZnBO sub(3)/C composites as a prominent stable anode for lithium ion rechargeable batteries

Mesh-like LiZnBO sub(3)/C composite was synthesized viaa facile polymer pyrolysis method for use as an anode in lithium ion batteries (LIBs), demonstrating high initial capacity (860 mA h g super(-1)) and excellent cycle stability (559 mA h g super(-1) after 600 cycles at 500 mA g super(-1) with a capacity retention of 94.47%). Ex situXRD tests indicate a mixed intercalation-conversion-alloy lithium storage mechanism in the first discharge/charge process of the composite. In addition, the LiZnBO sub(3)/C anode was coupled with a commercial LiCoO sub(2) cathode in a full cell, which presented an initial reversible capacity of 658 mA h g super(-1) at 100 mA g super(-1) and a capacity of 603 mA h g super(-1) after 400 cycles with average 0.02% fading in each cycle, which greatly outperforms previously reported compounds; this could be attributed to the unique mesh-like morphology of the composite, which enables high mass transport rate and good conductivity, and the coexistence of LiZnBO sub(3)-ZnO-Zn composites that produce a synergistic effect for fast kinetics. This study holds great promise for LIBs with high capacity and good stability.