Oxygen-Functionalized Polyacrylonitrile Nanofibers with Enhanced Performance for Lithium-Ion Storage

Functionalization and morphological construction can promote lithium-ion storage performance of organic polymers. In this contribution, exceptional lithium ion storage performance is empowered to porous polyacrylonitrile (PAN) nanofibers via the integration of template-assisted electrospinning technology and thermal treatment. It is found that the atmosphere adopted during the annealing process controls the storage behaviors of Li+. Impressively, the samples annealed in air present competitive capacities, rate capabilities, and a stable lifetime, compared with other counterparts (PAN powders and PAN fibers treated in N2). Such enhancement in performance is attributed to the enriched oxygen-based functionalities (mainly C═O group) which guarantee a high specific capacity and the porous structure which facilitates the transportation of Li+ and electrons to improve the rate capability. It is envisioned that such morphology control and surface functionalization open up new horizons in the development of organic electrode materials with enhanced lithium-ion storage performances.