Zr doping effect with low-cost solid-state reaction method to synthesize submicron Li₄Ti₅O₁₂ anode material

To improve the electrochemical properties, fine Zr-doping Li₄Ti₅O₁₂ anode materials for rechargeable lithium batteries with a uniform particle size distribution were synthesized by a modified solid-state reaction using fine Li₂CO₃ and TiO₂ (anatase) powders as precursors with a Li:Ti molar ratio of 4:5. The use of fine Li₂CO₃ and TiO₂ (anatase) powders as precursors prevented the formation of ZrO₂ at 0.1 mol Zr-doping. XRD analysis revealed that the substitution of Zr for Ti leads to the increase of lattice parameters, allowing improved Li diffusion. The discharge capacity retention increased slightly with Zr-doping and the 0.1 mol Zr-doped Li₄Ti₅O₁₂ electrode achieved 99% retention of discharge capacity.