Ni/Ni2P@C heterostructure loaded porous carbon microrods framework connected by N-doped carbon nanotubes for lithium-ion batteries

The caterpillar-like structure material (Ni/Ni2P@C-NCNTs) consisting of carbon microrods framework embedded with Ni/Ni2P nanoparticles coated by carbon layer (Ni/Ni2P@C) connected by interlaced N-doped carbon nanotubes is synthesized via a feasible method. The characteristic Ni/Ni2P@C core-shell structure effectively restrains the volume change and accelerates the infiltration of electrolyte. The Ni/Ni2P heterostructure is beneficial for the transfer of ions and electrons. Employing N-doped carbon nanotubes NCNTs into the composites successfully builds a conductive network and makes up for the poor electronic conductivity of transition-metal phosphides (TMPs). Consequently, Ni/Ni2P@C-NCNTs delivers a reversible capacity of 659.8 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1 after 170 cycles and an excellent rate performance of 330 mAh g−1 at 1000 mA g−1 as an anode material for lithium ion batteries (LIBs). The specific characteristics of Ni/Ni2P@C-NCNTs provide a novel design strategy of anode materials for LIBs and make it prospective for the application of TMPs in batteries.