Preparation and electrochemical characterization of TiO2 as an anode material for magnesium-ion batteries

Anode on the basis of titanium dioxide powder was made. Its morphological characteristics were investigated using ellipsometry, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Electrochemical properties were also investigated by cyclic voltammetry. Dispersing, mixing the initial reagents for obtaining homogenized paste and its coating to a substrate, drying and cutting the electrodes were main steps of anode production. The results of ellipsometry, SEM and EDS demonstrated a uniformly distributed layer of about 200 μm thickness with porous structure, particle diameter of 50–80 nm and titanium dioxide content (45.7 %). The XRD data confirmed the active anode matrix formation with a monoclinic crystal lattice corresponding to the modification of titanium dioxide (B) with small anatase inclusions. Electrochemical behavior of the electrode was examined in acetonitrile-based Mg(TFSI)2 solution. Diffusion coefficient (DMg) and the charge transfer rate constant (kct) were determined from cyclic voltammograms 1.54∙10–2 cm2/s and 1.29∙10–4 cm/s, respectively. A two-step electrochemical reaction was revealed by the ratio of the electricity amount consumed in the cathode and anode processes at varying the number of cycles. Small values of polarization resistance (Rp) calculated from cyclic voltammograms indicated rapid diffusion of magnesium ions during intercalation/deintercalation.