Tailored synthesis and characterization of Zr-doped NaNi1/3Fe1/3Mn1/3O2 cathode materials for advanced energy storage

• Published in: Materials today communications 2024-08, Vol.40, p.109552, Article 109552
• Main Authors: Zhu, Li-ang, Tian, Jingxiu, Miao, Hongshun, Liu, Yan
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Ball milling; Full-cell; Reversibility; Structural evolution; Zr-doped
• ISSN: 2352-4928; 2352-4928
• DOI: 10.1016/j.mtcomm.2024.109552

Utilizing ball milling and spray drying, Zr-doped O3-type NaNi1/3Fe1/3-xMn1/3ZrxO2 (NFM-xZr, x=0, 1 %, 3 %) cathode materials were successfully fabricated, confirmed by XRD and EDS analyses, indicating effective Zr4+ ion integration. Structural adjustments in transition metal and sodium layer spacing were observed, enhancing sodium ion diffusion. The optimal sample, NFM-1 %Zr, exhibited remarkable electrochemical performance, achieving a discharge capacity of 124.4mAhg−1 at 1 C and a retention rate of 87.14 % after 200 cycles. At 5 C, the retention rate remained high at 88.15 % after 200 cycles. Notably, within the voltage range of 2–4.3 V, the capacity retention rate at 1 C increased by 21.94 %. In a full cell configuration (NFM-1 %Zr//HC), a cycling retention rate of 79.78 % was achieved after 200 cycles at 10 C. Ex-situ XRD analysis highlighted the improved cathode material reversibility with Zr incorporation. SEM and EDS revealed that moderate Zr doping inhibited phase transitions and reduced oxygen losses, resulting in excellent electrochemical performance. [Display omitted] •Suitable Zr doping can broaden the interlayer spacing of the sodium layer in NFM samples.•NFM-1 %Zr samples exhibit excellent rate capability and cycle performance in half/full batteries.•Zr doping can effectively inhibit Jahn-Teller effect and enhance the structural stability of materials.•The modification mechanism of Zr doping under high voltage cycling was further elucidated by ex-situ XRD and EDS spectra.