Poly(anthraquinonylimide)/graphene composite cathode for sodium-ion batteries

Abstract Organic compounds are promising alternatives to inorganic materials as sodium-storage materials. Typically, conjugated carbonyl polymers attract the most attention due to the multiple redox sites and structure variety, but the low conductivity is hindering their application. In the present study, a poly(anthraquinonylimide)@graphene composite (PAQI@G) is prepared via a one-step solvothermal process, where the PAQI flakes are in well-contact with graphene. The graphene provides a conductive matrix facilitating electric conduction and a stable framework to maintain the material integrity. The PAQI@G cathode exhibits an outstanding rate capability with a capacity of 85 mAh g−1 at 1000 mA g−1 and an excellent cycleability with 95% capacity retention over 1500 cycles. The present work offers simple strategies for exploration of sustainable and high-performance organic materials for sodium-ion batteries.