Electrochemical performance of Sb₂S₃/CNT free-standing flexible anode for Li-ion batteries

Sb₂S₃/CNT composite has been synthesized through ethylene glycol-mediated solvothermal process, and binderless, free-standing, flexible anode is prepared from the composite through vacuum filtration technique. The 1-D rod-like structure of Sb₂S₃ prevents self-agglomeration and exhibits well-guided charge–discharge kinetics and high surface area enhancing their electrochemical performance in Li-ion batteries. The introduction of CNTs to the Sb₂S₃ facilitates the preparation of free-standing flexible anodes as well as buffers the volume changes that occur during repeated cycling, thereby improving the cycling stability. The Sb₂S₃/CNT free-standing anode exhibits a high initial discharge capacity of 930 mAhg⁻¹ at a current rate of 200 mAg⁻¹. The anode also exhibits excellent lifetime stability and rate capability by cycling at different current rates up to 1200 mAg⁻¹. Sb₂S₃/CNT anode gives a stable capacity of 443 mAhg⁻¹ after 100 cycles at a current density of 200 mAg⁻¹, while Sb₂S₃ rods deliver only 293 mAhg⁻¹ after 100 cycles at the same current rate. This free-standing flexible Sb₂S₃/CNT anode is highly promising in comparison with conventional graphite powder anode.