Lithium Ion Intercalation Performance of Niobium Oxides: KNb5O13 and K6Nb10.8O30

Abstract

The position of the Nb5+ Nb4 couple in two oxide hosts, KNb5O13 and K6Nb10.8O 30, that exhibit reversible Li insertion in the targeted voltage range has been reported. Polycrystalline KNb5O13 and K6Nb10.8O30, were prepared by conventional solid state reaction (SSR). Carbonate-based electrolytes are presently used in rechargeable Li batteries. The potassium-niobate family having tunnels occupied by K+ ions offer reversible insertion of Li at acceptable capacities with voltages within the targeted voltage range of 1.0-1.5 Versus Li+/ Li. Improvement in reversible capacity should be possible with smaller particles crystallite size has a strong influence on reversible capacity, with nanocrystalline A1NbO4 and TiO2.