Sodium Rhodizonate as Cathode Material for Sodium-Ion Batteries

Abstract

Commercial sodium rhodizonate (Na2C6O6) has been investigated as a cathode material for sodium-ion batteries without additional processing. It has been shown by scanning electron microscopy that the sodium rhodizonate powder consists of particles in the form of octahedra and rods in the size range from hundreds of nanometers to several tens of micrometers. The specific characteristics of Na2C6O6 cathodes have been determined by a galvanostatic cycling method. Their magnitude, as well as stability during multiple charge/discharge cycling has been found to depend on the composition of the electrolyte and a positive electrode manufacturing method. A conclusion has been drawn that this material is prospective for making cathodes for sodium batteries after its further modification, the selection of the optimal cathode manufacturing technology, electrolyte composition, and corresponding cycling conditions.