Enhanced electrochemical performance of NiSbS/NiSb/NiS nanocomposites anchored on graphite nanosheets for sodium-ion battery applications†

In the realm of scalable fabrication of anodes through ball milling, ensuring high electrochemical performance and robust cycling stability of anodes for sodium-ion batteries is paramount, but it presents a formidable hurdle. In pursuit of these goals, a distinctive hybrid composite distinguished by its intricate multiphase composition has been devised. This entails the integration of innovative NiSbS/NiSb/NiS nanomaterials onto exfoliated graphite nanosheets (Ni–Sb–S/GN) via a straightforward technique. Analyses indicate that the interplay between the graphite nanosheets and the hybrid Ni–Sb–S in conjunction with the discharge byproducts of Na₂S substantially augment the stability and Na-ion diffusion kinetics of Ni–Sb–S/GN anodes. The novel Ni–Sb–S/GN exhibits markedly superior electrochemical performance in comparison to its Ni–Sb–S counterpart. Specifically, Ni–Sb–S/GN retains a reversible capacity of 238.7 mA h g⁻¹ at 0.2 A g⁻¹ after 300 cycles and 200 mA h g⁻¹ at 1 A g⁻¹ after 1000 cycles, corresponding to a high capacity retention rate of 83.8% compared to the 2nd cycle. This contribution presents a novel avenue for the exploitation of advanced multiphase anodes exhibiting superior capacity, rate capability, and cycling durability.