Researchers at Tokyo University of Science have developed a method to improve the stability of sodium-ion batteries by introducing copper into the cathode material. This advancement addresses a common issue in β-phase sodium manganese oxide (β-NaMnO₂) electrodes, where structural defects known as stacking faults can degrade battery performance over time.
In their study, the team synthesized a series of copper-doped β-NaMnO₂ samples with varying copper concentrations. They observed that increasing the copper content effectively reduced the occurrence of stacking faults, leading to enhanced cycling stability. Electrochemical tests demonstrated that the copper-doped electrodes maintained their capacity over extended charge and discharge cycles, indicating a significant improvement in battery longevity.
This research suggests that copper doping could be a viable strategy for developing more durable and cost-effective sodium-ion batteries. Such advancements have the potential to accelerate the adoption of sodium-ion technology in various applications, including consumer electronics and electric vehicles, by offering a sustainable and affordable alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries.