Combinatorial investigations of Co-LiF and Co-Li3N nanocomposite as new lithium storage material

Nanocomposite Co-LiF and Co-Li₃N thin films were successfully fabricated by pulsed laser deposition (PLD). They were investigated as anode materials of lithium ion batteries. Both of Co-LiF and Co-Li₃N thin films showed large reversible capacities. The electrochemical products were characterized by high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and selected area electron diffraction (SAED) measurements. Co-LiF and Co-Li₃N thin films exhibited different electrochemical reaction mechanism in discharge and charge processes. The results both provide direct evidences that reversible decomposition and formation of LiF and Li₃N could be driven by nanosized transition Co metal.