One-Pot Formation of Sb–Carbon Microspheres with Graphene Sheets: Potassium-Ion Storage Properties and Discharge Mechanisms

Low-cost rechargeable batteries are ardently required for large-scale energy storage applications. In this regard, nonaqueous potassium-ion batteries (KIBs) are ascendant candidates due to the abundance of potassium resources, yet their energy density and cycle stability are insufficient for practical use. In this study, we report the Sb-based multicomposite comprising Sb nanoparticles, amorphous carbon (C), and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) as an anode material for KIBs. By adopting the tartaric acid as a carbon source and a chelating agent simultaneously, a multicomposite electrode with uniform and fine-sized Sb particles is realized. The Sb-C-rGO multicomposite exhibits a reversible capacity of 310 mAh g^-1 at 0.5 A g^-1 and 79% of it is retained after 100 cycles. Electrochemical tests show that the capacity fading in the Sb-C-rGO cell is attributed to the side reactions in the K metal and electrolyte, rather than the degradation of Sb nanoparticles. Furthermore, the formation of the metastable product is elucidated by Ostwald's step rule and density functional theory calculations. The present synthesis approach and the understanding of the failure and working mechanisms provide general insight into developing the alloying-type electrode materials for rechargeable batteries.