Mechanistic Mapping of Alkali-Ion Storage in Micro-Spherical Closed-Pores Hard Carbon: Electrochemical, Ex-Situ, and DFT Approaches

Key Points

• This research aims to understand how well porous closed-pore hard carbon anodes store alkali ions to enhance battery efficiency.
• Conducted electrochemical evaluations of hard carbon anodes
• Performed ex-situ analyses to examine structural changes
• Utilized Density Functional Theory (DFT) modeling for mechanistic insights
• Hard carbon anodes showed notable reversible capacities of 422 mAh/g
• Electrochemical performance indicated efficient ion storage mechanisms
• Ex-situ studies revealed structural stability during cycling