NASICON type KTi2(PO4)3 decorated by NTCDA-derived carbon layer for enhanced lithium/sodium storage

Abstract NASICON type KTi2(PO4)3 decorated by NTCDA-derived carbon layer (KTP/NC) was prepared as anode material to obtain sustainable lithium/sodium ion storage (LIBs/SIBs). Due to its prominent capacitance, good electronic conductivity and ability to constrain volume, the KTP/NC composite realizes highly electrochemical kinetics both in LIBs and SIBs. For LIBs, the KTP/NC composite delivers a superior reversible capacity of 598.1 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 0.5C, impressive cyclability with 225.5 mAh g−1 after 3000 cycles at an ultrahigh current density of 26.1 C and conspicuous rate performance of 160.6 mAh g−1 even at 52.2 C. In addition, the composite has a wide operation-temperature window with favorable capacities of 147.1–372.9 mAh g−1 from −10 °C to 50 °C. As for SIBs, the KTP/NC composite maintains a stable discharge capacity of 112.5 mAh g−1 after 700 cycles at a current density of 2.6 C and conspicuous rate performance of 86.7 mAh g−1 at 5.2 C. The KTP/NC anode exhibits discharge capacities of 29.9–112.6 mAh g−1 from −10 °C to 40 °C. The results demonstrate that the KTP/NC composite would be a promising electrode material for LIBs and SIBs.