Metal (M = Ru, Pd and Co) embedded in C2N with enhanced lithium storage properties

Abstract

The improvement of the high-efficiency electrode materials for lithium ion batteries is one of the research priorities. The research on the carbon with M − N active sites (M-N-C) as anodes for lithium ion batteries is still quite rare. Herein, we report a series of highly crystalline M@C2N hybrids in which the metal (M = Ru, Pd and Co) are uniformly embedded in the two-dimensional C2N networks. Together with the unique structural features (e.g., uniform two-dimensional nanohole structure, high surface area and enlarged distance between C2N nanosheets), rich N-M coordination homogenously distributing through the M@C2N structure are favorable for the brisk infiltration of electrolyte, swift transportation of Li+/electrons and more storage of Li+, thereby leading to the superior lithium storage properties.