Enhanced electrochemical performance of Na2Ti6O13 anodes for sodium-ion batteries via one-step carbon coating

Na 2 Ti 6 O 13 , with its unique tunnel structure and high operating voltage, has emerged as a promising anode material for sodium-ion batteries. However, its low electrical conductivity and limited reversible capacity hinder its practical application. This study aimed to improve the performance of Na 2 Ti 6 O 13 by carbon coating via simple high-temperature solid-state method. The Na 2 Ti 6 O 13 was synthesized with sucrose as the carbon source through both one-step and two-step coating approaches. Electrochemical performance tests indicated that Na 2 Ti 6 O 13 /C synthesized via the one-step coating method (NTO/C) exhibited higher specific capacity and superior cycling stability. The capacity of the electrode was 112.4 mAh·g -1 after 500 cycles at a current density of 88.5 mA·g -1 . The enhanced performance of NTO/C was attributed to the carbon layer, which improved electrical conductivity, reduced particle size, and increased the concentration of oxygen vacancies , facilitating faster ion transport and enhancing the electrode reaction kinetics. These findings suggest that this simple synthesis method offers a promising strategy for large-scale production of high-performance Na 2 Ti 6 O 13 anodes for sodium-ion batteries.