Dual-ion intercalation to enable high-capacity VOPO4 cathodes for Na-ion batteries

Abstract

VOPO4 is a potential cathode candidate in sodium-ion batteries for multi-electron reactions to attain high capacity up to 330 mAh g−1. However, most current efforts are focused on the V5+/V4+ redox reaction with a moderate capacity of <150 mAh g−1. Here, we report for the first time the Na intercalation behaviors for both αI- and β-VOPO4 polymorph cathodes through the V5+/V4+/V3+ redox reactions. Electrochemical evaluations suggest further reduction of V4+ ions can be attained for both cathodes, as indicated by the high discharge capacities derived from a large plateau below 1.5 V vs Na/Na+ as well as various structural analyses of electrodes at different discharge states. However, only the layered αI- cathode is preferable for deep sodiation to maintain stable structure over cycling. Theoretical studies by bond-valence sum (BVS) mismatch map calculations reveal similar Na-ion migration pathways in VOPO4•2H2O and αI-NaVOPO4, but H2O molecules in the hydrate cathode have negative effect on the diffusion of Na-ions in betweenVOPO4 layers.