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Industrial Research And Consultancy Centre
Patent
Reduced Graphene Oxide Reinforced Antimony Composite (Sb- RGO), Process of preparation, Phase Assemblage and uses thereof as Anode Material for Na-Ion Batteries
Abstract

The present invention involves the development of a composite of reduced graphene oxide reinforced with antimony (Sb-rGO), featuring a distinct morphology and phase composition. It also introduces a straightforward, cost-effective, and rapid process for preparing this composite. The developed Sb-rGO composite demonstrates high capacity for sodium storage, exceptional cyclic stability, and outstanding rate capability as an anode material in sodium-ion batteries.

Figure (1) Variations of the specific Na-storage capacities with cycle number, during galvanostatic cycling of the as-developed Sb/rGO composite at a current density of 0.2 A/g in Na half cells with schematic representation of the synthesis/processing route used for the microcomposite/nanocomposite architecture; (2) SEM micrograph of the as-synthesized Sb-rGO powder particles, showing the unique morphology and phase assemblage pertaining to rGO being present both surrounding and inside the Sb particles.

Problem Statement

The development of sodium-ion battery systems (SIB) is gaining significance as a sustainable electrochemical energy storage (EES) technology. However, challenges such as stress development, fracture, and disintegration from volume changes during Na-ion insertion and removal lead to rapid capacity fade in antimony (Sb)-based electrodes during electrochemical cycling. There remains a pressing need for low-cost, easily synthesized, environmentally friendly, efficient, and high-performance anode materials for Na- ion batteries.

Uniqueness of the Solution
  • Distinctive Morphology and Phase Composition: Develops a material with unique morphology and optimized phase composition, contributing to enhanced electrochemical properties. 
  • High Electrochemical Performance: Achieves high capacity, excellent rate capability, and superior capacity retention, making it ideal for demanding battery applications. 
  • Sb-Based Anode for Na-Ion Batteries: Creates an antimony (Sb)-based anode material specifically designed for high-performance sodium-ion batteries. 
  • Reinforcement with rGO: Enhances the performance of the Sb-based anode material by reinforcing it with reduced graphene oxide (rGO), improving conductivity and structural stability. 
  • Simple and Cost-Effective Synthesis: Ensures the development of the high- performance Sb–rGO anode material through a straightforward, low-cost, and rapid processing method.
Prototype Details

The unique morphology and phase assemblage of the Sb–rGO composite material were achieved through a sequential synthesis process. Initially, reduced graphene oxide (rGO) was dispersed in ethanol, followed by the addition of antimony chloride (SbCl3) dissolved in ethanol. This mixture was stirred continuously for at least 10 hours at room temperature. Subsequently, an ammonia solution was added, and the resulting mixture was stirred for an additional 12 hours under the same conditions. After allowing the solution to settle and dry, the obtained residue was rapidly heated to 700°C for 2 hours in an argon atmosphere, yielding the desired composite with the required structural and phase characteristics. An electrode fabricated from the developed Sb–rGO composite was tested as an anode material for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs), demonstrating a high sodium storage capacity of approximately 550 mAh/g at a current density of 0.2 A/g. The material exhibited excellent capacity retention of about 97% after 150 charge–discharge cycles at the same current density. Moreover, it showed outstanding rate capability, retaining over 86% of its capacity when the current density was increased from 0.1 A/g to 2 A/g, delivering a capacity of approximately 490 mAh/g even at the highest tested rate.

Current Status of Technology

The invention is at the stage of demonstration and/or validation in lab environment.

Technology readiness level

4

Societal Impact

The invention promotes sustainable and affordable energy storage by enabling high- performance sodium-ion batteries through low-cost, eco-friendly materials. It supports the transition to clean energy, reduces dependence on lithium, and minimizes environmental impact, contributing to energy access, electronic waste reduction, and long-term sustainability in sectors like EVs and renewable energy.

Applications or Domain
  • Energy Storage Systems: Suitable for grid-scale and off-grid storage solutions. 
  • Electric Vehicles (EVs): Can be used in next-generation sodium-ion battery- powered EVs. 
  • Consumer Electronics: Applicable in batteries for laptops, smartphones, and portable devices. 
  • Renewable Energy Integration: Supports storage for solar and wind power applications. 
  • Industrial Backup Power: Useful in UPS systems and backup power for critical infrastructure.

Geography of IP

Type of IP

Application Number

202121053920

Filing Date
Grant Number

406543

Grant Date
Assignee(s)
Indian Institute of Technology Bombay
**This IP is owned by IIT Bombay**