In-MOF-Derived Hierarchically Hollow Carbon Nanostraws for Advanced Zinc-Iodine Batteries

Abstract

Hollow carbon materials are regarded as crucial support materials in catalysis and electrochemical energy storage on account of their unique porous structure and electrical properties. Herein, an indium-based organic framework of InOF-1 can be thermally carbonized under inert argon to form indium particles through the redox reaction between nanosized indium oxide and carbon matrix. In particular, a type of porous hollow carbon nanostraw (HCNS) is in situ obtained by combining the fusion and removal of indium within the decarboxylation process. The as-synthesized HCNS, which possesses more charge active sites, short and quick electron, and ion transport pathways, has become an excellent carrier for electrochemically active species such as iodine with its unique internal cavity and interconnected porous structure on the tube wall. Furthermore, the assembled zinc-iodine batteries (ZIBs) provide a high capacity of 234.1 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1, which ensures that the adsorption and dissolution of iodine species in the electrolyte reach a rapid equilibrium. The rate and cycle performance of the HCNS-based ZIBs are greatly improved, thereby exhibiting an excellent capacity retention rate. It shows a better electrochemical exchange capacity than typical unidirectional carbon nanotubes, making HCNS an ideal cathode material for a new generation of high-performance batteries.