Two-dimensional Ni-MOF as a high performance anode material for lithium ion batteries

Metal organic frameworks (MOFs) have attracted extensive attention as electrode materials for use in Li-ion batteries owing to their diverse structural chemistry. Herein, a new type of two-dimensional (2D) Ni-MOF is presented as a high-performance anode material for rechargeable Li-ion batteries. The layered structure endows the Ni-MOF with free channels between the inter-layers, which is beneficial to Li+ ion diffusion, making it stand out from a crowd of porous 3D molecular materials. Strikingly, when tested at 100 mA g−1, Ni-MOF demonstrates a high capacity of 765 mA h g−1. The anode material also delivers superior rate performance and good cyclability. After being charged/discharged to high rates of 2 A/g, the anode could restore its initial capability at 100 mA g−1.