Synthesis and Study of Nanoparticles of Niobium Oxide for Use as Negative Electrodes in Li-Ion Batteries

Batteries' expansive ability to provide various industrial and consumer-based applications with a sufficient amount of affordable energy has led to an increased dependency on contributing materials. With the increasing market size of lithium-ion batteries, the scientific demand for sustainable measures within battery design has become increasingly apparent on all social, political, and economic fronts. Though a societal push for sustainable measures within the battery industry has seen a surge in recent years, the need for high capacity, adequate power density, long cycle life, and transformation within the battery remains.

The demand for advanced electrode materials has seen an increase in recent years with the complexity of modern battery configurations. This study investigates nanoparticles of niobium oxide for use as negative electrodes in Li-ion batteries. Niobium oxide proves to be an impressive material for its capabilities in redox chemistry, mitigation of dendritic growth, and chemical stability. The presented synthetic route ensures inclusivity and affordability of the discussed materials, while the electrochemical and physical characterization completed uses various types of instrumentation including XRD, TEM, and SEM. The electrodes were tested in Li-ion half-cell batteries to determine capacity, rate performance, lifespan, and possible structural changes. Via a microcosmic approach, the advancement of these electrode materials could provide insight into future improved electrochemical performance.