A 3D interconnected NH4Fe0.6V2.4O7.4@C nano-composite with superior sodium storage properties

A novel 3D interconnected NH4Fe0.6V2.4O7.4@C nanocomposite was in situ synthesized through a facile hydrothermal reaction at low temperature (98 degrees C), and its electrochemical performance as a cathode for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) was investigated for the first time. Under the intercalation of Fe3+ and carbon-coating, as-prepared samples turned to 3D interconnected structures, which were composed of NH4Fe0.6V2.4O7.4 nanoparticles and carbon chains. The 3D interconnected NH4Fe0.6V2.4O7.4@0.5 wt%C nanocomposite exhibits a high discharge specific capacity of 306 mA h g(-1) at a current density of 20 mA g(-1) and a high-rate capacity of 130 mA h g(-1) at 0.4 A g(-1). The results of EIS and ex situ SEM indicated that the 3D interconnected NH4Fe0.6V2.4O7.4@0.5 wt%C nanocomposite possesses good electrical conductivity and structural stability. The ex situ XRD results suggest that NH4Fe0.6V2.4O7.4@0.5 wt%C undergoes a reversible insertion/de-insertion mechanism during a charge/discharge process. Our work demonstrates that the 3D interconnected NH4Fe0.6V2.4O7.4@C nanocomposite material could be considered as a potential cathode for sodium ion batteries.