Vanadate-Based Materials for Li-Ion Batteries: The Search for Anodes for Practical Applications

While the practical application of electrode materials depends intensively on the Li+ ion storage mechanisms correlating ultimately with the coulombic efficiency, reversible capacity, and morphology variation of electrode material upon cycling, only intercalation-type electrode materials have proven viable for commercialization up to now. This paper reviews the promising anode materials of metal vanadates (MxVyOz, M = Co, Cu, Mn, Fe, Zn, Ni, Li) that have high capacity, low cost, and abundant resource, and also discusses the related Li+ ion storage mechanism. It is concluded that most of these (MxVyOz, M = Co, Cu, Mn, Fe, Zn, Ni) exhibit irreversible redox reactions upon lithiation/delithiation accompanied by large volume expansion, which is not favorable for industrial applications. In particular, Li3VO4 with specific intercalation Li+ ion storage mechanism and compatible merits of safety and energy density exhibits great potential for practical application. This review systematically summarizes the latest progress in Li3VO4 research, including the representative fabrication approaches for advanced morphology and state-of-the-art technologies to boost performance and the morphology variation associated with Li+ ion storage mechanisms. Furthermore, an outlook on where breakthroughs for Li3VO4 may be most likely achieved will be provided.