Synthesis of mixed ionic–electronic Li+–NASICON glass-ceramic nanocomposites for cathode applications

• Published in: Journal of solid state electrochemistry 2020-07, Vol.24 (7), p.1625-1638
• Main Authors: Sharma, Neelakshi, Dalvi, Anshuman
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Analytical Chemistry; Cathodes; Characterization and Evaluation of Materials; Chemistry; Chemistry and Materials Science; Condensed Matter Physics; Conductors; Electrochemistry; Electrode materials; Energy Storage; Glass ceramics; Glass matrix composites; Impedance spectroscopy; Lithium ions; Lithium oxides; Mechanical milling; Nanocomposites; Original Paper; Phosphorus pentoxide; Physical Chemistry; Rechargeable batteries; Spectrum analysis; Synthesis; Thermal stability; Vanadium pentoxide
• ISSN: 1432-8488; 1433-0768
• DOI: 10.1007/s10008-020-04706-y

A novel route for preparation of mixed ionic–electronic (MIE) glass-ceramics is proposed. Glass-ceramic nanocomposites are prepared by externally dispersing MIE glass viz. [Li 2 O] x -[V 2 O 5 -P 2 O 5 ] 100 −  x (where x  = 10 and 20 wt% with and the ratio of V 2 O 5 and P 2 O 5 has been kept to 9:1 and 3:1) in the NASICON-structured LiTi 2 (PO 4 ) 3 (LTP) matrix using mechanical milling-assisted synthesis route. After subjecting these glass-ceramic composites to suitable sintering temperature, the samples are structurally and electrically characterized using XRD, FESEM, and impedance spectroscopy. The maximum conductivity (100 °C) is found to be 5 × 10 −5  Ω −1  cm −1 for an LTP-glass-ceramic composite, which is significantly higher than that of LTP. Impedance spectroscopy, electronic conductivity, and cyclic voltammetry scans strongly suggest simultaneous transport of ions and electrons. These composites exhibit thermal stability up to ~250 °C. These mixed conductors are found to be potential candidates as electrode/cathode materials in all-solid-state Li + ion batteries.