Synthesis,structure, and X-ray absorption spectra of LixNbO2 and NaxNbO2 (x ≤ 1)

The two series of compounds, Li_xNbO₂ and Na_xNbO₂, were synthesized from LiNbO₂ and NaNbO₂ with oxidizing agents. From neutron diffraction, it is concluded that the Li position is fully occupied for x = 1. Even though the long-range crystal symmetry does not seem to change for x < 1, as monitored by Guinier X-ray powder patterns, the Nb? L_III XANES spectra exhibit significant spectral variations with x which reflect changes in the unoccupied d-density of states.