Characterization of Mg0.5Zr2(PO4)3 for potential use as electrolyte in solid state magnesium batteries.

Samples of Mg0.5Zr2(PO4)3 compound with pure NASICON-phase were prepared by sol gel method and characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray, impedance spectroscopy, magnesium transference number measurement and linear sweep voltammetry technique. The compound consisted of the monoclinic crystalline phase with a space group of P21/n (Z=4). The sample sintered at 750 °C showed the highest total conductivity of 1.0×10-6 S cm-1 at ambient temperature and 7.1×10-5 S cm-1 at 500 oC. Ionic transference number corresponding to Mg2+ ion transport determined by means of Bruce and Vincent technique was found to be 0.69. Linear sweep voltammetry result showed that the Mg0.5Zr2(PO4)3 compound was electrochemically stable up to 2.50 V versus Mg/Mg2+ electrode. These results indicated suitability of the compound to be used for development of solid state electrolytes for magnesium batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]