A layered titanium-based transition metal oxide as stable anode material for magnesium-ion batteries

Rechargeable magnesium (Mg) battery with high volumetric energy density is one of the most promising candidates for next-generation safe and clean renewable energy sources. Just like rechargeable lithium battery, the development of anode materials beyond metal Mg will greatly promote the practical process of rechargeable Mg battery system. In this study, we propose a strategy to realize the reversible storage of Mg²⁺ in possible zero-strain layered transition metal oxides (Li₂TiO₃) via nanotechnology for the first time. The as-prepared layered Li₂TiO₃ anode shows good cycling stability with a highly reversible Mg²⁺ storage capacity of 110 mA h g⁻¹. The unusual Mg storage mechanism with stable phase transition reaction is proposed by various ex situ analyzing and testing techniques which will help advance the development process of the long-life rechargeable Mg batteries.