XAS probing the redox mechanism and the role of transition metals in O3-type layered oxide cathodes for sodium-ion batteries

This project focuses on O3 type layered transition-metal oxide cathodes Na0.9Mn0.48Fe0.3(Cu/Zn)0.22O2 for Na-ion batteries. We aim to probe the transition metals on their cycling-induced evolutions in redox activity and local structure by synchrotron operando XAS. We expect to distinguish the role of these TMs in the overall charge-storage mechanism and identify their influence on cycling stability in terms of voltage polarization, TM migrations to sodium layers and anionic redox. Our findings will provide guidance in future materials design and optimization for higher-energy Na-ion batteries.