Three-dimensional Na3V2(PO4)3/carbon nanofiber networks prepared by electrospinning as self-standing cathodes for high performance Na-ion batteries.

Highlights • Na 3 V 2 (PO 4 ) 3 /C nanofibers are prepared by electrospinning and heat treatment. • The as-obtained Na 3 V 2 (PO 4 ) 3 /C nanofibers can be used as self-standing cathodes. • The NVP particles were embedded in uniform porous carbon nanofibers to form a flexible 3D network structure. • Even at a rate of 30 C, the discharge capacity was up to 30 mA h g−1. Abstract A facile and simple electrospinning method was adopted to prepare a 3D network of Na 3 V 2 (PO 4 ) 3 /C flexible fiber membrane as self-standing cathodes for sodium ion batteries. The physical and electrochemical performances are investigated by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and electrochemical tests. The Na 3 V 2 (PO 4 ) 3 /C nanorods displayed an excellent sodium storage performance. For example, it showed an initial capacity of 107 mA h g−1 at a current density of 0.1 C and retained almost 100% of the initial capacity at the 100th cycle. Moreover, the discharge capacity was up to 30 mA h g−1 at 30 C, suggesting a high rate capability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]