Utilizing electrochemical methods for the synthesis, modification, and characterization of high-capacity anode materials for sodium-ion batteries

Abstract

Batteries are used every day across the world, powering our devices, storing renewable energy, and even powering cars. Lithium-ion batteries are the leading rechargeable battery technology, but require expensive, rare materials. To reduce costs and increase battery production, alternative battery chemistries, often called "next generation batteries", have grown in popularity as a field of research. Sodium-ion batteries are of particular interest due to their low material cost. While the working principles of lithium-ion batteries translate to sodium-ion batteries, the material properties of lithium-ion battery components do not translate well to sodium. Here, Sn and Sb based anodes have been synthesized using different electrochemical deposition techniques. We identified that optimizing the concentration of Sn and Sb in an alloy film led to greater capacity retention. A corrosion-based synthetic route was then explored, offering a scalable process with a wide substrate scope. Finally, surface characterization of Sb-based anodes and how it relates to the broader field of XPS is also discussed.