NaSICON-type materials for lithium-ion battery applications: Progress and challenges

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are widely used in electric vehicles, energy storage, smart grids, and portable devices due to their high average output voltage and energy density. NaSICON-type materials have been identified as potential candidates for electrode and solid electrolyte materials for LIBs due to their 3D framework, which contains Li⁺ ions, excellent ionic conductivity, and thermal stability. NaSICON-type materials have a 3D framework and a fast Li⁺ diffusion pathway, making them suitable for use in LIBs. However, their application as solid electrolytes is limited due to poorer ionic conductivity and interfacial stability compared to commercialized liquid electrolytes. Furthermore, their use as electrode materials is restricted by their low electronic conductivity. Here, this review provides an overview of NaSICON-type materials, including their common structure, Li⁺ diffusion mechanism, and preparation strategies. The article also discusses the application and modification strategies of NaSICON-type materials for LIBs, classifying them as anode materials, cathode materials, and solid electrolyte materials. Additionally, the potential use of NaSICON-type materials as modification materials for cathode materials for LIBs is briefly mentioned. Building on previous work on NaSICON-type materials, we propose potential areas for further development and wider applications of these materials in LIBs.. Authors: Xiao, Jingwen [Central South University, Changsha (China)]; Zhang, Bao [Central South University, Changsha (China)]; Liu, Junxiang [Argonne National Laboratory (ANL), Argonne, IL (United States)]; He, Xinyou [Central South University, Changsha (China)]; Xiao, Zhiming [Central South University, Changsha (China)]. DOE Contract: AC02-06CH11357. Subjects: 25 ENERGY STORAGE; NaSICON-type materials; electrode materials; lithium-ion battery; modification strategies; solid-state electrolyte materials