MOF‐derived SnSe/carbon composite anode materials for Li‐ion and Na‐ion batteries

Abstract Metal selenides (MSs) are attracted considerable interest as potential anode electrode materials for Li‐ion/Na‐ion batteries (LIBs/SIBs) owing to their elevated theoretical capacity and superior conductivity. Nevertheless, their potential is constrained by inadequate capacity retention and inferior longevity, principally due to volumetric expansion and undesirable structural failure caused by the insertion and extraction of comparatively large Li + /Na + ions during charging and discharging. Therefore, three different composites containing SnSe and one more metal selenide are synthesized using metal–organic framework (MOF) to enhance the accommodation of Li/Na ions and provide adequate ion routes. The Co 3 Se 4 /SnSe @ NPC material demonstrates exceptional cyclic stability and rate capability as anode material for LIBs and SIBs (603 mAh g −1 after 1000 cycles at 2 A g −1 (for LIBs) and 296 mAh g −1 after 1000 cycles at 2 A g −1 (for SIBs)). This electrochemical performance enhancement may be attributed to the improved conductivity of the composite structure and introduction of SnSe, which facilitates the transfer of electrons within the structure. In addition, selenium‐ and nitrogen‐doped mesoporous carbon architectures facilitate electrolyte penetration in active materials, enhance contact area, promote effective diffusion of Li + or Na + within the composite, and mitigate volume expansion during the charge–discharge cycle. Consequently, the Co 3 Se 4 /SnSe @ NPC composite offers a novel perspective on the advancement of anode materials for LIBs and SIBs.