3D interconnected network architectures assembled from W18O49 and Ti3C2 MXene with excellent electrochemical properties and CDI performance

W1(8)O(49) has been demonstrated to be a promising candidate for efficient electrochemical applications. To further improve the electrical conductivity of W18O49 and make it suitable for hybrid capacitive deionization (HCDI), highly stable three-dimensional (3D) interconnected network architectures assembled from W18O49 and Ti3C2 MXene composites with different Ti3C2 contents have been synthesized via a facile and effective electrostatic attraction self-assembly strategy and used as a novel HCDI electrode material. Compared to single-component electrodes, the synergistic effect between W18O49 and Ti3C2 enabled high specific surface area (SSA), fast ion diffusion, and dual pseudocapacitance effect. These multiple advantages of the W18O49/Ti3C2 electrode achieved a preponderant salt adsorption capacity (SAC) as high as 29.25 mg g(-1) in 500 mg L-1 NaCl solution at an applied voltage of 1.2 V. An excellent capacitance (153F g(-1) at 2 mV s(-1)) and high cycling stability (maintaining 98.3% of the initial capacity after 10 cycles) were also observed. This work could provide some insights for rational design of 3D electrode architectures for electrochemical applications and water desalination.

Automated summary

In this study, a stable three-dimensional interconnected network electrode material composed of W18O49 and Ti3C2 was synthesized. The electrode material showed high specific surface area, fast ion diffusion, and dual pseudocapacitance effect, resulting in excellent salt adsorption capacity, capacitance, and cycling stability.