Constructing a binderless carbon-coated In2O3 anode for high-performance lithium-ion batteries

Abstract

Indium oxide (In₂O₃) anode material exhibits significant potential in lithium-ion batteries due to its low operating voltage and high theoretical specific capacity. However, its poor conductivity and substantial volume changes during Li⁺ insertion and extraction result in subpar rate performance and cycling stability. To address these issues, a binderless carbon-coated In₂O₃ anode is constructed, utilizing foam nickel as the current collector and liquid nitrile rubber (LNBR-820H) with high adhesion as the carbon source. This approach enhances conductivity and mitigates volume expansion problems. The synergistic effects of carbon coating and binderless construction yield the In₂O₃@C10%-Ni-BL anode with an initial discharge specific capacity of 1052.43 mAh g⁻¹, a discharge specific capacity of 513.60 mAh g⁻¹ after 200 cycles, and improved rate performance. These findings demonstrate the viability of this synergistic strategy, which not only circumvents the negative impact of binders on conductivity and enhances Li⁺ insertion/extraction efficiency but also increases the proportion of active materials, thereby improving both rate performance and cycling stability of the anode.