Lithium-Ion Dynamic and Storage of Atomically Precise Halogenated Nanographene Assemblies via Bottom-Up Chemical Synthesis.

Graphene has received much scientific attention as an electrode material for lithium-ion batteries because of its extraordinary physical and electrical properties. However, the lack of structural control and restacking issues have hindered its application as carbon-based anode materials for next generation lithium-ion batteries. To improve its performance, several modification approaches such as edge-functionalization and electron-donating/withdrawing substitution have been considered as promising strategies. In addition, group 7A elements have been recognized as critical elements due to their electronegativity and electron-withdrawing character, which are able to further improve the electronic and structural properties of materials. Herein, we elucidated the chemistry of nanographenes with edge-substituted group 7A elements as lithium-ion battery anodes. The halogenated nanographenes were synthesized via bottom-up organic synthesis to ensure the structural control. Our study reveals that the presence of halogens on the edge of nanographenes not only tunes the structural and electronic properties but also impacts the material stability, reactivity, and Li+ storage capability. Further systematic spectroscopic studies indicate that the charge polarization caused by halogen atoms could regulate the Li+ transport, charge transfer energy, and charge storage behavior in nanographenes. Overall, this study provides a new molecular design for nanographene anodes aiming for next-generation lithium-ion batteries.