247: Solid-state synthesis and characterization of potential cathode materials for Li+ and Na+ batteries

Abstract: A number of mixed metal oxides containing either lithium or sodium ions are synthesized using bulk powder synthesis in the solid-state. These materials are then characterized using various methods to determine their composition, morphology and structure using electron microscopy with EDS (energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy), IR spectroscopy and powder X-ray diffraction. Finally, the electrochemical properties of the materials will be investigated using standard electrochemical techniques with the sample materials anchored to a carbon tape electrode.