A g-C 3 N 4 -coated paper-based separator for sodium metal batteries

A paper-based membrane coated by graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) is prepared via a dip-coating method and used as a separator for sodium metal batteries with merits of low cost and environment-friendliness. Introduction of g-C3N4 effectively improves the ionic conductivity and the structural stability of the separator. Compared with traditional polyethylene separators and Al2O3-coated separators, the g-C3N4-coated separators show better electrolyte wettability, thermal stability, and electrochemical stability. Therefore, Na||Na3V2(PO4)3 battery using the g-C3N4-coated separator exhibits better cycling stability and higher rate capability. These results prove that the g-C3N4-coated paper-based separator is expected to become the next generation of low-cost and high-safety separator in sodium metal batteries.