PNb₉O₂₅-Li₄Ti₅O₁₂ blended anode with enhanced capacity and volumetric energy density

Lithium titanate (Li₄Ti₅O₁₂, LTO) used as a “zero-strain” anode material in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is well-known for its long cycle life. However, its practical application is limited due to the low specific capacity (170 mAh g^–1). In this research, we optimized the electrode composition by incorporating micrometer-sized phosphorus niobium oxides (PNb₉O₂₅, PNO) to prepare blended anode electrode, thereby significantly improving the capacity, stability, and volumetric energy density. PNO serves as a mixed ionic and electronic conductor (MIECs), aiding in the reduction of polarization and enhancement of the tap density. Consequently, the LTO/PNO (20 %) blended anode with 90 % active material content are able to stably deliver 93 % capacity retention at 4000 mA g⁻¹ after 4000 cycles and high volumetric energy density of 668 Wh L^-1 at 100 mA g⁻¹. Our findings underscore the significance of industrialization methods, emphasizing the need for targeted modifications to enhance cell performance.