Bismuth Telluride Nanoplates Hierarchically Confined by Graphene and N-Doped C as Conversion-Alloying Anode Materials for Potassium-Ion Batteries

Potassium-ion batteries (PIBs) have broad application prospects in the field of electric energy storage systems because of its abundant K reserves, and similar “rocking chair” operating principle as lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Aiming to the large volume expansion and sluggish dynamic behavior of anode materials for storing large sized K-ion, bismuth telluride (Bi₂Te₃) nanoplates hierarchically encapsulated by reduced graphene oxide (rGO), and nitrogen-doped carbon (NC) are constructed as anodes for PIBs. The resultant Bi₂Te₃@rGO@NC architecture features robust chemical bond of Bi─O─C, tightly physicochemical confinement effect, typical conductor property, and enhanced K-ion adsorption ability, thereby producing superior electrochemical kinetics and outstanding morphological and structural stability. It is visually elucidated via high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM) that conversion-alloying dual-mechanism plays a significant role in K-ion storage, allowing 12 K-ion transport per formular unit employing Bi as redox site. Thus, the high first reversible specific capacity of 322.70 mAh g⁻¹ at 50 mA g⁻¹, great rate capability and cyclic stability can be achieved for Bi₂Te₃@rGO@NC. This work lays the foundation for an in-depth understanding of conversion-alloying mechanism in potassium-ion storage.