Mechanochemistry in Sodium Thioantimonate Solid Electrolytes: Effects on Structure, Morphology, and Electrochemical Performance

• DOI: 10.1021/acsami.3c07746
• Publication Date: 2023-08-09T14:20:07Z
• Authors: Fuwei Wen; Geng Xie; Ning Chen; Qichao Wu; Madhusudan Chaudhary; Xiang You; Vladimir K. Micha...; Arthur Mar; Lingzi Sang
• Keywords: Mechanochemistry; Tetragonal crystal system; Fast ion conductor

Sodium thioantimonate (Na3SbS4) and its W-substituted analogue Na2.88Sb0.88W0.12S4 have been identified as potential electrolyte materials for all-solid-state sodium batteries due to their high Na+ conductivity. Ball milling mechanochemistry is a frequently employed synthetic approach produce such Na+-conductive solid solutions; however, changes in the structure morphology introduced these systems via process are poorly understood. Herein, we combined X-ray absorption fine spectroscopy, Raman solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance powder diffraction, photoelectron spectroscopy scanning electron microscopy characterization techniques provide an in-depth analysis of electrolytes. We report unique seen Na3SbS4 resulting from ball milling, inducing electrochemical performance batteries. Specifically, observed tetragonal-to-cubic crystal phase transition within following mill, increase In contrast, conductivity was reduced mechanochemically treated formation accumulation WS2 phase. addition, mechanochemical treatment alters surface densified pellets, providing intimate contact at electrolyte/Na interface. This phenomenon not Na3SbS4. work reveals structural morphological origin materials' how synthesis can introduce them.