S-functionalized 2D VB as a promising anode material for rechargeable lithium ion batteries.

The development of novel high specific capacity anode materials is urgently needed for rechargeable metal ion batteries. Herein, S-functionalized VB as the electrode material for Li/Na/K ion batteries are comprehensively investigated using first-principles calculations. Specifically, VBS was verified with good electrical conductivity via band structure and density of states calculations. Phonon dispersion and molecular dynamic simulations were performed and confirmed the dynamic and thermal stability of VBS. The use of VBS with a high theoretical specific capacity of 606 mA h g for lithium ion batteries (LIBs) due to the bilayer adsorption of Li atoms is encouraging, which is attributed to the double empty orbitals of the S atoms and small lattice mismatch (1.5%) between the Li layers and substrate. Furthermore, dendrite formation would be well prohibited and safety issues for battery operation would be ensured for VBS as electrode materials because of the low open circuit voltage with 0.37 V. The high charge/discharge rate for LIBs is also achievable owing to the high mobility of adatoms on the surface of VBS. Our work not only finds use as a promising material for the field of energy storage, but also provides constructive design strategies for developing high performance anode materials for rechargeable metal ion batteries.