Ce-MOF derived ceria: Insights into the Na-ion storage mechanism as a high-rate performance anode material

Cerium-based metal–organic framework (Ce-MOF-808) derived CeOx/C (1≤x≤2) nanocomposite material is applied as an anode material for sodium-ion batteries. Cubic phase structure ceria within 5 nm of grain consisted nanocubes are predicted from physical and morphological studies. MOF template is converted into the carbon during the calcination process and promotes the metal oxide conductivity. The electrochemical performance of Ce-MOF-808-derived CeOx/C nanocomposites exhibit a sodium ion reversible discharge capacity of 446 mAh g−1 at a current density of 100 mA g−1 and sustains 256 mAh g−1 over 600 cycles. The capacity contribution behavior, kinetics performance and Na-ion storage electrochemical reaction mechanism are investigated through cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance and ex-situ X-ray diffraction/X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analyses. The contribution of highly stable pseudocapacitive nature and oxygen vacancies-based conversion of Ce reveal a remarkable cyclic and rate performance. Thus, this work provides in-depth analysis and utilization of MOF-derived metal oxide nanocomposite for high-performance energy storage applications.