Synthesis of lithium titanate/graphite-ZnO composites by solid-state method as anode material for lithium-ion batteries

Lithium Titanate (Li4Ti5O12) has several advantages, zero strain, excellent charge-discharge stability, and does not form SEI (Solid Electrolyte Interphase). However, LTO has a low specific capacity (10-9 S cmn-1), and it can be enhanced by making a composite with other materials. Graphite has a high specific capacity, 372 mAh/g, and the addition of ZnO would enhance the capacity and conductivity. This research focused on examined the effect of ZnO by various concentration 3 %, 5 % and 7 % with a fixed concentration of graphite 5 % by using solid-state method and make a comparison between the neat LTO along with LTO/Graphite with the addition of excess LiOH 6 % for LTO. XRD shows the presence of Li4Ti5O12 on each sample with the most significant crystallite size found in LTO/Graphite-ZnO 3 %. EIS shows LTO/Graphite-ZnO 5 % has the best conductivity, and CV shows that LTO/Graphite-ZnO 3 % has the most significant specific capacity. CD shows LTO/Graphite-ZnO 5 % has the most significant capacity, with a little deviation from LTO/Graphite-ZnO 3 %. Retention indicates the LTO/Graphite-ZnO 3 % sample has a good rate capability, and all the samples have good coulombic efficiency, indicates no energy lost during charge-discharge. Reviewing the results, further research is needed to obtain the best results.