Wadsley-Roth Crystallographic Shear Structure Niobium-Based Oxides: Promising Anode Materials for High-Safety Lithium-Ion Batteries

Wadsley-Roth crystallographic shear structure niobium-based oxides are of great interest in fast Li+ storage due to their unique 3D open tunnel structures that offer facile Li+ diffusion paths. Their moderate lithiation potential and reversible redox couples hold the great promise in the development of next-generation lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) that are characterized by high power density, long lifespan, and high safety. Despite these outstanding merits, there is still extensive advancement space for further enhancing their electrochemical kinetics. And the industrial feasibility of Wadsley-Roth crystallographic shear structure niobium-based oxides as anode materials for LIBs requires more systematic research. In this review, recent progress in this field is summarized with the aim of realizing the practical applications of Wadsley-Roth phase anode materials in commercial LIBs. The review focuses on research toward the crystalline structure analyses, electrochemical reaction mechanisms, modification strategies, and full cell performance. In addition to highlighting the current research advances, the outlook and perspective on Wadsley-Roth anode materials is also concisely provided.