Fast lithium transport in PbTe for lithium-ion battery anodes

Abstract

The reversible charging of a lead chalcogenide, PbTe, was studied for use as the anode material in a Li-ion cell and compared to PbO. A similar series of Li–Pb alloys were formed but with Li₂Te present instead of Li₂O. In the presence of Li₂Te, rapid Li–Pb alloying and dealloying were observed in the potential range of 0.01–0.7 V. In the potential range of 0.8–2.5 V, Li₂Te formed and decomposed reversibly. Electrodes were cycled stably for 100 cycles at a C/5 rate in both potential domains. The electrodes were also cycled stably at rates up to 10C. The presence of Li₂Te reduced the overpotential required at higher charge and discharge rates by acting as a superionic conductor to improve lithium ion diffusion. These results recommend this material for potential use in low-power applications such as cell phones.