Nanostructured Niobium Oxide for Sodium and Potassium-Ion Batteries

The battery is a key component to the development and implementation of renewable energy. Wind and sunlight are intermittent energy sources. Batteries offer the ability to store this energy and distribute it during high demand. Currently, Lithium-ion battery technology leads the market in performance. However, lithium-based technologies face challenges in availability and cost. The ability to use sodium or potassium as an alternative ion source could negate these challenges. However, sodium and potassium-ion batteries are inherently difficult to produce due to their larger ionic size, weight, and lower mobility. Finding electrode materials that are capable of coping with these properties is a challenge. This study experiments on the use of nano-channeled niobium oxide (NCNO) as an anode for sodium and potassium-ion batteries. As a ceramic, niobium oxide is a prospective candidate as an electrode material. The porous nanostructure of NCNO provides more surface area for electrochemical reactions to take place. Additionally, amorphous NCNO’s can be crystallized to change the kinetics and cell performance of the battery. Samples of NCNO were electrochemically tested in sodium and potassium-ion half-cells. Through this work we will learn about the electrochemical performance of this material based on the rate capability, life cycle, and capacity observed.