Deliberately Designed Atomic-Level Silver-Containing Interface Results in Improved Rate Capability and Utilization of Silver Hollandite for Lithium-Ion Storage.

α-MnO2-structured materials are generally classified as semiconductors; thus, we present a strategy to increase electrochemical utilization through the design of a conductive material interface. Surface treatment of silver hollandite (AgxMn8O16) with Ag+ (Ag2O) provides significant benefits to the resultant electrochemistry, including a decreased charge-transfer resistance and a 2-fold increase in deliverable energy density at a high rate. The improved function of this designed interface relative to conventional electrode fabrication strategies is highlighted.