Phase transition induced synthesis of one dimensional In1−xZnxOy heterogeneous nanofibers for superior lithium ion storage.

Graphical abstract Highlights • In 1−x Zn x O y heterogeneous NFs with mixed phases of c- and rh-In 2 O 3 are fabricated. • Rh-In 2 O 3 phase improves electrical conductivity and optimizes interface interplay. • Phase compositions of rh-In 2 O 3 and c-In 2 O 3 can be controllably tuned. • Excellent performance is attributed to the phase composition and interfaces. Abstract Poor cyclability and rate performance are two key problems hindering the practical application of In 2 O 3 in high power lithium-ion batteries. Herein, we report a phase transition strategy to fabricate novel In 1−x Zn x O y heterogeneous nanofibers with mixed phases of cubic bixbyite-type In 2 O 3 and rhombohedral corundunm-type In 2 O 3 to enhance the lithium ion storage ability. The one-dimensional structure shortens the path for lithium ion diffusion and electron transfer, and accommodates the large volume changes upon cycling. The introduction of rhombohedral corundunm-type In 2 O 3 can favorably improve the electrical conductivity, provide more pathways for lithium ion diffusion, and optimize the interface interplay. The optimal In 0.5 Zn 0.5 O 1.25 heterogeneous nanofibers exhibit superior cyclic stability and outstanding high-rate performance, which can be ascribed to the synergistic effects of excellent electrical conductivity, more pathways for lithium ion diffusion, and the coupling effect of heterogeneous interface. This new phase-transition induced formation of heterostructure nanofibers is enlightening in design high performance electrode materials for lithium ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]