Core-shell Cu7S4@PDA nanoboxes as a novel cathode for aluminum batteries

Battery energy storage technology is key to unlocking green renewable power's full potential. Cathode material is a key factor affecting the performance of aluminum batteries (ABs). In this paper, a novel core-shell Cu7S4@PDA nanobox cathode material for ABs was designed and prepared by a reasonable method. At 0.2 A/g, the Cu7S4@PDA nanoboxes can provide a reversible capacity of 142 mAh/g after 100 cycles, and the coulombic efficiency (CE) of almost all cycles is maintained around 100 %. Even at 3 A/g, Cu7S4@PDA can deliver a capacity of 68 mAh/g. The results show that PDA coating reduces the irreversible dissolution of S in Cu7S4, prevents the pulverization and agglomeration of Cu7S4, and improves its structural stability and conductivity.