A novel Li3P-VP nanocomposite fabricated by pulsed laser deposition as anode material for high-capacity lithium ion batteries.

Li 3 P-VP nanocomposite has been formed by a homemade pulsed laser deposition route and its electrochemical characteristic with lithium is reported for the first time. It displays high lithium storage capability as electrode material for secondary lithium ion batteries. The Li 3 P-VP nanocomposite exhibits high specific discharge capacity of 1040.4 mAh g−1 between 0.01 and 4.0 V and the specific capacity can still maintain 95% after 50 cycles. Ex situ transmission electron microscopy reveals that VP 2 is generated from Li 3 P and VP after the first charging process to 4.0 V, while Li 3 P and V are found to be the final discharge products. In the recharging process, VP and VP 2 are formed as the delithiated products. Unlabelled Image • Li 3 P-VP nanocomposite thin film was fabricated by PLD. • High capacity of 1040.4 mAh g−1 was achieved and 95% was kept after 50 cycles. • VP 2 was generated from Li 3 P and VP after the first charging process to 4.0 V. • Reversible conversion mechanism to V and Li 3 P was suggested for VP-VP 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]