A. Mitelman

Bio: A. Mitelman is an academic researcher from Bar-Ilan University. The author has contributed to research in topics: Magnesium battery & Crystal structure. The author has an hindex of 9, co-authored 15 publications receiving 759 citations.

Phase Diagram of Mg Insertion into Chevrel Phases, MgxMo6T8 (T = S, Se). 2. The Crystal Structure of Triclinic MgMo6Se8

Abstract: Chevrel phases (CPs), M x Mo 6 T 8 (M = metal, T = S, Se), may be used as unique cathode materials for rechargeable Mg batteries because they ensure the high mobility of multivalent cations. However, the electrochemical behavior is strongly affected by the host composition. For the selenide, the intercalation process is completely reversible, while partial Mg trapping occurs upon its extraction from the sulfide at room temperature. A combination of powder X-ray and high-resolution neutron diffraction was used to study the crystal structure of triclinic MgMo 6 Se 8 , especially for determining the precise location of the Mg 2+ cations within the host lattice. It was shown that the crystal structure of the selenide is similar to that of triclinic Fe 2 Mo 6 S 8 : The Mg 2+ cations are distributed between two sites (per formula unit) with a square-pyramidal anion coordination. The environment analysis of all the cation sites based on the bond valence sum theory led us to propose the most favorable routes for Mg 2+ ion transport, as well as to explain the peculiarities of the electrochemical behavior of the CPs as intercalation materials for Mg batteries.

Structural Mechanism of the Phase Transitions in the Mg−Cu−Mo6S8 System Probed by ex Situ Synchrotron X-ray Diffraction

Abstract: Mo6S8 is a unique cathode material for rechargeable magnesium batteries, but its theoretical capacity cannot be realized at ambient temperature due to partial Mg trapping. This work shows that this trapping can be avoided by using Cu∼1Mo6S8 instead of Mo6S8. The phase diagram of Mg insertion into Cu∼1Mo6S8 was studied by a combination of cyclic voltammetry and ex situ synchrotron X-ray diffraction. Similarly to the previously studied Li−M−Mo6S8 (M = metal) systems, the insertion results in Cu extrusion from the intercalation compound, but contrary to the known cases, this process is fully reversible. The structural mechanism of the insertion reactions was established by Rietveld analysis performed for nine new MgxCuyMo6S8 phases. It was found that the crystal structure of the quaternary intercalation compounds in the Mg−Cu−Mo6S8 system is similar to that of the ternary phases: both Mg2+ and Cu+ cations are located in the tetrahedral sites of the inner and outer rings, while the occupancy of the sites inc...

Promise and reality of post-lithium-ion batteries with high energy densities

Abstract: Energy density is the main property of rechargeable batteries that has driven the entire technology forward in past decades. Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) now surpass other, previously competitive battery types (for example, lead–acid and nickel metal hydride) but still require extensive further improvement to, in particular, extend the operation hours of mobile IT devices and the driving mileages of all-electric vehicles. In this Review, we present a critical overview of a wide range of post-LIB materials and systems that could have a pivotal role in meeting such demands. We divide battery systems into two categories: near-term and long-term technologies. To provide a realistic and balanced perspective, we describe the operating principles and remaining issues of each post-LIB technology, and also evaluate these materials under commercial cell configurations. Post-lithium-ion batteries are reviewed with a focus on their operating principles, advantages and the challenges that they face. The volumetric energy density of each battery is examined using a commercial pouch-cell configuration to evaluate its practical significance and identify appropriate research directions.

Functional Materials for Rechargeable Batteries

Abstract: There is an ever-growing demand for rechargeable batteries with reversible and efficient electrochemical energy storage and conversion. Rechargeable batteries cover applications in many fields, which include portable electronic consumer devices, electric vehicles, and large-scale electricity storage in smart or intelligent grids. The performance of rechargeable batteries depends essentially on the thermodynamics and kinetics of the electrochemical reactions involved in the components (i.e., the anode, cathode, electrolyte, and separator) of the cells. During the past decade, extensive efforts have been dedicated to developing advanced batteries with large capacity, high energy and power density, high safety, long cycle life, fast response, and low cost. Here, recent progress in functional materials applied in the currently prevailing rechargeable lithium-ion, nickel-metal hydride, lead acid, vanadium redox flow, and sodium-sulfur batteries is reviewed. The focus is on research activities toward the ionic, atomic, or molecular diffusion and transport; electron transfer; surface/interface structure optimization; the regulation of the electrochemical reactions; and the key materials and devices for rechargeable batteries.

Recent advances in rechargeable battery materials: a chemist’s perspective

Abstract: The constant increase in global energy demand, together with the awareness of the finite supply of fossil fuels, has brought about an imperious need to take advantage of renewable energy sources. At the same time, concern over CO2 emissions and future rises in the cost of gasoline has boosted technological efforts to make hybrid and electric vehicles available to the general public. Energy storage is a vital issue to be addressed within this scenario, and batteries are certainly a key player. In this tutorial review, the most recent and significant scientific advances in the field of rechargeable batteries, whose performance is dependent on their underlying chemistry, are covered. In view of its utmost current significance and future prospects, special emphasis is given to progress in lithium-based technologies.

Mg rechargeable batteries: an on-going challenge

Abstract: The first working Mg rechargeable battery prototypes were ready for presentation about 13 years ago after two breakthroughs. The first was the development of non-Grignard Mg complex electrolyte solutions with reasonably wide electrochemical windows in which Mg electrodes are fully reversible. The second breakthrough was attained by demonstrating high-rate Mg cathodes based on Chevrel phases. These prototypes could compete with lead–acid or Ni–Cd batteries in terms of energy density, very low self-discharge, a wide temperature range of operation, and an impressive prolonged cycle life. However, the energy density and rate capability of these Mg battery prototypes were not attractive enough to commercialize them. Since then we have seen gradual progress in the development of better electrolyte solutions, as well as suggestions of new cathodes. In this article we review the recent accumulated experience, understandings, new strategies and materials, in the continuous R&D process of non-aqueous Mg batteries. This paper provides a road-map of this field during the last decade.