Thiosalicylic-Acid-Mediated Coordination Structure of Nickel Center via Thermodynamic Modulation for Aqueous Ni-Zn Batteries.

Su, Yichun; Yuan, Guoqiang; Hu, Jinliang; Zhang, Guangxun; Tang, Yijian; Chen, Yihao; Tian, Yiluo; Wang, Shuli et al. · Adv Mater · 2024

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

Uniquely functional nanocomplexes with rich coordination environments are critical in energy storage. However, the construction of structurally versatile nanocomplexes remains challenging. In this study, a nickel-based complex with structural variations is designed via thermodynamic modulation using a dual-ligand synthesis strategy. A nickel-based nanomaterial (NiSA-SSA-160) with a large specific surface area is synthesized around the competing coordination of the host and guest molecules that differ in terms of the chemical properties of the O and S elements. Concurrently, the coordination environment of NiSA-SSA-160 is investigated via X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy. The thiol functional groups synergistically induced an electron-rich Ni structure, thus increasing the electron density of the central atom. The electrochemical performance of an assembled NiSA-SSA-160//Zn@CC battery is shown to improve significantly, with a maximum energy density of 0.54 mWh cm<sup>-2</sup> and a peak power density of 49.49 mW cm<sup>-2</sup>. This study provides a new perspective regarding coordination transformations and offers an idea for the design of functionally rich nanomaterials.