A novel synthesis of Nb_2O_5@rGO nanocomposite as anode material for superior sodium storage

The development of novel anode materials,with superior rate capability,is of utmost significance for the successful realization of sodium-ion batteries(SIBs).Herein,we present a nanocomposite of Nb_2 O_5 and reduced graphene oxide(rGO) by using hydrothermal-assisted microemulsion route.The water-in-oil microemulsion formed nanoreactors,which restrained the particle size of Nb_2 O_5 and shortened the diffusion length of ions.Moreover,the rGO network prevented agglomeration of Nb_2 O_5 nanoparticles and improved electronic conductivity.Consequently,Nb_2 O_5@rGO nanocomposite is employed as anode material in SIBs,delivering a capacity of 195 mAh/g after 200 charge/discharge cycles at 0.2 A/g.Moreover,owing to conductive rGO network,the Nb_2 O_5@rGO electrode rende red a specific capacity of 76 mAh/g at high current density of 10 A/g and maintained 98 mAh/g after 1000 charge/discharge cycles at 2 A/g.The Nb_2 O_5@rGO electrode material prepared by microemulsion method shows promising possibilities for application of SIBs.