Approaches to nickel nanoparticle synthesis: A review of their potential as high-capacity and long-cycle-life battery cathode materials

Abstract

Rising demand for high-performance batteries necessitates improved cathodes, particularly for energy density and cycle life. Nickel nanoparticles (Ni NPs) present a promising alternative cathode material due to their high conductivity, large surface area and thermal stability, potentially boosting battery capacity and stability. Producing Ni NPs via top-down or bottom-up approaches offers distinct pathways, each with specific characteristics and morphological control crucial for cathode application. This paper reviews superior methods for synthesising Ni NPs to enhance their quality attributes. The findings indicate that Ni NP-based cathodes hold significant potential. They promise key advantages over existing technologies: increased energy capacity, enhanced electrochemical stability during cycling, extended cycle life and more affordable production costs. These improvements address critical limitations in current battery cathode materials.