Recent Progress on Titanium Niobium Oxide as Anode Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries

As the demand for energy continues to rise, finding ways to enhance the performance of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) as high-energy-density storage devices has become increasingly critical. Titanium niobium oxide (TNO), a novel anode material, has garnered significant attention due to its impressive specific capacity (ranging from 377 to 402 mAh g⁻¹), remarkable cycling stability, and favorable safety. Nevertheless, the development of TNO is impeded by several obstacles, primarily the low ionic and electronic conductivities, which adversely affect its rate performance. The modification of TNO materials has emerged as an effective strategy to mitigate these issues. This review elucidates the crystal structure and lithium storage mechanism associated with TNO anodes. Subsequently, it provides a comprehensive overview of the various synthesis techniques utilized for TNO anode materials, which optimize the electrochemical performance of TNO by modulating the microstructure and surface properties of the materials. In addition, it delves into the modification strategies for TNO materials, such as particle size reduction, elemental doping, oxygen vacancy introduction, composite conductive phases, and surface coatings. These strategies are designed to improve both the electronic and ionic conductivities of TNO, thereby enhancing its rate performance and cycling stability. Finally, it presents prospective development pathways aimed at achieving high-capacity and long-cycle-stable TNO anode materials.