NaTi2(PO4)3 Nanoparticles Embedded in Carbon Matrix as Long-Lived Anode for Aqueous Lithium Ion Battery

NaTi2(PO4)(3) nanoparticles with the average size of 10-20 nm have been embedded in carbon matrix by a novel two-step approach and the composite was employed as an anode for aqueous lithium ion battery (ALIB). An ALIB consisting of a commercial LiMn2O4 cathode, NaTi2(PO4)(3)/C anode and Li2SO4 electrolyte has been firstly constructed. The cell delivers an average platform voltage of 1.6 V and excellent rate capability with reversible capacities of 115 mAh g(-1) and 83 mAh g(-1) (based on the mass of NaTi2(PO4)(3)) at 30 mA g(-1) and 1500 mA g(-1), respectively. It is interesting to note that no obvious capacity fading is observed after 300 cycles at 150 mA g(-1). Even after an ultra-long cycling test up to 3600 cycles at 1500 mA g(-1), 95% of the initial capacity is maintained, indicating the superior cycling stability for as-prepared NaTi2(PO4)(3)/C composite. The Li ion intercalation/deintercalation mechanism of NaTi2(PO4)(3) anode has also been investigated. The outstanding electrochemical performance and low cost enable the NaTi2(PO4)(3)/C a very promising anode candidate for ALIBs. (C) 2016 The Electrochemical Society. All rights reserved.