Synthesis and characterization of a new trimetallic cathode material for lithium batteries

A new cathode material (Cu_xAg_yV₂O_z) was investigated as a candidate for lithium batteries. Silver and copper-containing starting materials were examined in this study, using silver oxide, copper oxide, silver metal and copper metal, in addition to silver and copper nitrate. The Ag:Cu:V metal ion ratios were systematically varied to study the effect of this parameter on the electrochemical properties of the material. For Cu_xAg_yV₂O_z the metal ion ratios were in the range: 0.1≤x≤0.6 and 0.2≤y≤0.8, with 5.2≤z≤5.9 for oxygen. The samples were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry, scanning electron microscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, and constant resistance discharge of test cells. The experimental capacity of Cu_0.5Ag_0.5V₂O_5.75 (initial open-circuit voltage = +3.8 V versus Li/Li⁺) discharged to + 1.5 V versus Li/Li⁺ was 332 mAh/g, resulting in the formation of Li_3.4Cu_0.5Ag_0.5V₂O_5.75.