Published online by Cambridge University Press: 10 February 2011
Low-potential Li insertion materials comprised of molybdenum oxides (AxMoO3) have been prepared by a “chimie douce” route. Li insertion below 200 mV is associated with dramatic transformation of the structure, leading to a material which displays good cyclability with a high reversible specific capacity of 940 mA/g in the voltage window 3.0–0.005V (volumetric capacity of 4000 mAh/cc), albeit with notable polarization on charge. The structural and compositional changes on discharge to 200 mV have been studied by a combination of XRD, and XAS. The interlayer ions have also been exchanged for Sn, and the electrochemical characteristics of these materials are compared with the alkali derivatives.