Structural and electrochemical insights into potassium niobium oxides from a secondary source

High-power alkali metal-ion batteries and capacitors are critical for advanced technologies such as electric vehicles. Niobium-based oxides have emerged as promising candidates for high-rate anodes in these energy storage systems. In this study, we conducted an initial feasibility assessment of potassium niobium oxides as potential anode materials . The starting material for growing these oxides was niobic acid with K 2 SO 4 on its surface, obtained through a viable and sustainable route using Fe-Nb alloy fines. The potassium niobium oxides were characterized using X-ray diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and micro-Raman spectroscopy techniques . Our results confirm that the crystals exhibit pseudo-tetragonal and tetragonal tungsten bronze-like structures. Preliminary electrochemical characterization indicated promising behavior, particularly for samples with pseudo-tetragonal tungsten bronze-like structures, as evidenced by reversible redox peaks in cyclic voltammetry . These findings highlight the potential of potassium niobium oxides for high-rate energy storage applications, warranting further investigation to optimize their performance and scalability. This work serves as an initial feasibility study , laying the groundwork for future research in this area.