Electrophoretically deposited NiSb2O6-carbon black composite film as a potential anode for sodium-ion battery

Abstract In this manuscript, we propose nickel antimony oxide (NiSb2O6, NSO), crystallized in the tri-rutile form, as a high capacity conversion-type anode material for the sodium-ion batteries. The material is synthesized via co-precipitation method followed by calcination at high temperatures. X-ray diffraction studies confirm the formation of a phase pure tri-rutile NSO powder after calcination at 1000 °C for 5 h. The as-prepared powder is then electrophoretically deposited on a copper foil along with carbon black as conductive additive to develop uniform, porous, and adherent NSO‑carbon black films. The deposited film is then tested as an anode for sodium-ion battery, which delivers a specific capacity of 255mAhg−1 after 50 cycles at a specific current of 100mAg−1, with a coulombic efficiency of ~98%. The deposited film also exhibits good cycling stability as well as rate capability. Furthermore, the film delivers a specific capacity of 140mAhg−1 after 100 cycles, when cycled at a higher specific current (750mAg−1).