Abstract
The present work introduces a new intercalation host for the Na ions, Nb2O5, and proposes that a mesoporous Nb2O5/carbon composite can function as a promising sodium insertion material. The highly ordered mesoporous Nb2O5/carbon electrode, synthesized using a block copolymer-assisted one-pot method, demonstrated not only a stable cycle life, but also outstanding rate capability. The excellent Na storage properties of the Nb2O5/carbon electrode were due to the uniquely ordered mesoporous nanostructure and in situ carbon formation whose configuration provided a large electrode-electrolyte interface area and enhanced Na ion and electron transport. Ex situ analyses revealed that Nb2O5 stores Na ions through Na de/intercalation reactions combined with surface capacitive reactions, after the activation process during the first sodiation.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 62-70 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | Nano Energy |
Volume | 16 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - 1 Sep 2015 |
Keywords
- Electrode
- Intercalation compounds
- Mesoporous
- NbO
- Sodium ion batteries