For next-generation rechargeable batteries, magnesium is of great interest as an alternative to Lithium due to its relative abundance, low toxicity, and bivalent charge (3833 mAh/cm3 and 2205 mAh/g). However, Mg-ion batteries face unique challenges related to the formation of anode passivation layers, anode-electrolyte-cathode incompatibilities, slow solid-state Mg2+ diffusion, and ion trapping. Using analytical (scanning) transmission electron microscopy ((S)TEM) and ab initio modeling, we have investigated Mg2+ intercalation and extraction mechanisms in ß-SnSb alloy nanoparticles (NPs). During the first several charge-discharge cycles, the SnSb particles irreversibly break down into a network of pure-Sn and Sb-rich sub-particles, as Mg-ions replace Sn ions in the SnSb lattice. Once the morphology has stabilized, the small Sn NPs (
Revised: November 16, 2020 |
Published: February 11, 2015
Citation
Parent L.R., Y. Cheng, P.V. Sushko, Y. Shao, J. Liu, C.M. Wang, and N.D. Browning. 2015.Realizing the Full Potential of Insertion Anodes for Mg-ion Batteries Through the Nano-Structuring of Sn.Nano Letters 15, no. 2:1177-1182.PNNL-SA-106031.doi:10.1021/nl5042534