Superior Li storage anode based on novel Fe-Sn-P alloy prepared by electroplating

•Novel ternary Fe-Sn-P alloys were prepared by simple single-step electrodeposition.•The Fe51Sn38P11 electrode shows outstanding Li storage properties.•The cauliflower-like morphology of the anode could significantly mitigate electrode volume expansion.•The superior electrochemical performance of the Fe-Sn-P alloy confirmed its potential as an alternative Li-ion storage anode.

Novel ternary Fe-Sn-P alloys prepared by simple single-step electrodeposition are investigated as promising anodes for Li-ion batteries. The Fe51Sn38P11 electrode, in particular, shows outstanding Li-storage properties, with initial specific discharge/charge capacities of 857.8 and 655 mA h g−1, respectively. The reversible capacity remains stable at 427 mA h g−1, even after 90 cycles, corresponding to a coulombic efficiency of 96% and a capacity retention of 65%. The cauliflower-like morphology of the above anode is well preserved after 90 cycles, suggesting that this alloy could significantly mitigate the electrode volume expansion by exerting a positive multiphase synergistic effect. The superior electrochemical performance of the ternary Fe-Sn-P alloys confirmed its potential as an alternative Li-ion storage anode; the large-scale suitability of the developed electroplating method provides an additional advantage.