Work

AlC2 monolayer and AlC2/graphene heterostructure as high-performance anode materials for sodium-ion batteries: A first-principles study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Two-dimensional monolayers of group III (e.g., borophene, aluminene) and group IV (e.g., graphene) elements face challenges as sodium-ion battery (SIB) anodes due to their inherent structural instability and chemical inertness, respectively. To overcome these limitations, we proposed a stable aluminum dicarbide (AlC 2 ) monolayer, designed to combine the advantageous properties of both graphene and aluminene. Monolayer AlC 2 exhibits intrinsic metallicity and exceptional performance as an anode material for SIBs, featuring a low diffusion barrier (0.40 eV), a suitable average open-circuit voltage (0.25 V), and a high storage capacity (1577 mAh g −1 ). Furthermore, we constructed a graphene/AlC 2 van der Waals heterostructure to enhance electrochemical performance, which not only strengthens Na adsorption on graphene but also improves ionic diffusivity on the AlC 2 layer. These findings demonstrate that AlC 2 is a highly promising material for next-generation energy storage systems.

Source: Journal of Power Sources

DOI: 10.1016/j.jpowsour.2026.239530

Authors: Jing-Da Guo, Zhi-Hui Wu, Xiao-Hong Zheng, Xiao-Juan Ye, He Lin, Chun-Sheng Liu

Institutions: Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing Forestry University, Xinjiang University

Language: English

Topic: Advancements in Battery Materials

Subfield: Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,230