Three-dimensional prelithiated Ti3C2Tx for high-capacity lithium-ion batteries anode

Abstract

Ti₃C₂T_x is a promising electrode material for lithium-ion batteries owing to its superior electrical conductivity, low lithium-ion diffusion energy barrier, and tunable surface structure. However, the self-stacking problem of Ti₃C₂T_x nanosheets can seriously degrade lithium storage performance. Herein, three-dimensional prelithiated Ti₃C₂T_x (Li-Ti₃C₂T_x) was fabricated via an in-situ adsorption-reduction method and employed as an anode for lithium-ion batteries. The Li-ion pre-insertion not only enlarges the interlayer distance of Ti₃C₂T_x but also replaces the -F groups on the surface of Ti₃C₂T_x, thereby improving the redox activity. The three-dimensional structure of Li-Ti₃C₂T_x provides more open spatial channels, effectively mitigating self-stacking issues, shortening ion transport pathways, and facilitating rapid ion/electron transfer, which collectively improve cycling stability. Consequently, the Li-Ti₃C₂T_x electrode demonstrates excellent rate capability, high reversible capacity (503.5 mA h g^-1 at 0.1 A g^-1 after 200 cycles) and outstanding long-term stability (362 mA h g^-1 at 2 A g^-1 after 4000 cycles). This study establishes a theoretical foundation for advancing Ti₃C₂T_x in high-capacity lithium-ion battery applications.