Impact of fuel type on solution combustion synthesis of titanium pyrophosphate nanoparticles as an anode material for Li-ion batteries

ÖZER D., Tunca E. T., Oztas N. A., Niaz N. A., Gregory D. H.

Materials Chemistry and Physics, vol.362, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 362
  • Publication Date: 2026
  • Doi Number: 10.1016/j.matchemphys.2026.132771
  • Journal Name: Materials Chemistry and Physics
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Chemical Abstracts Core, Chimica, Compendex, INSPEC, Academic Search Ultimate (EBSCO), Engineering Source (EBSCO)
  • Keywords: Fuel type effect, Li-ion batteries, Solution combustion synthesis, TiP2O7
  • Hacettepe University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Nanosized titanium pyrophosphate (TiP2O7) powders were synthesized via the solution combustion method using six different fuels: carbohydrazide, urea, hexamethylenetetramine (HMTA), glycine, citric acid, and oxalyldihydrazide. The structural and morphological properties of the synthesized materials were systematically investigated using comprehensive characterization techniques. The findings revealed that, under identical synthesis parameters including the oxidant-to-fuel ratio, combustion temperature, and heat treatment duration, the type of fuel employed has a pronounced effect on both the structure and morphology of the final products. These fuel-dependent variations in microstructure, particularly in terms of crystallite size, porosity, and particle morphology, significantly influence the electrochemical behavior of the electrodes. Among all samples, the HMTA-based TiP2O7 electrode exhibited the lowest impedance and charge transfer resistance, resulting in enhanced electrochemical performance with a large reversible capacity, excellent cyclic stability, and good rate capability. These findings demonstrate that fuel-controlled solution combustion synthesis is an effective strategy for tailoring the microstructure and improving the electrochemical performance of TiP2O7, highlighting its potential as a promising anode material for lithium-ion batteries.