Eutectic Synthesis of the P2-Type NaxFe1/2Mn1/2O2 Cathode with Improved Cell Design for Sodium-Ion Batteries

Abstract

An engaging area of research in sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) has been focusing on discovery, design and synthesis of high-capacity cathode materials in order to boost energy density to levels close enough to the state-of-the-art lithium-ion batteries. Of particular interest, P2-type layered oxide, Na2/3Fe1/2Mn1/2O2, has been researched as a potential cathode in SIBs based on its high theoretical capacity of 260 mAh/g and use of non-critical materials. However, the reported synthesis methods are not only complex and energy-demanding, but also often yield inhomogeneous and impure materials with capacities less than 200 mAh/g under impractical test conditions. Here, we report a novel synthesis route using low temperature eutectic reaction to produce highly homogeneous and crystalline, and impurity-free P2-NaxFe1/2Mn1/2O2 with enhanced Na-ion diffusivity and kinetics. The overall electrochemical performances of the Na-ion cells have been improved by pairing the P2-cathode with pre-sodiated hard carbon anodes, leading to reversible capacities in the range of 180 mAh/g. This new approach is a contribution towards the simplification of synthesis and scalability of sodium-based cathodes with high crystallinity and fine-tuned morphology, and the realization of a sodium-ion battery system with lower cost and improved electrochemical performance.