NaV2O5 nanoplates: Hydrothermal synthesis, characterization and study of their optical and electrochemical properties

Plate-like nanocrystalline NaV2O5 has been synthesized hydrothermally via a simple and elegant route. The morphology, the structure, the crystallinity and the composition of the samples were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, nitrogen adsorption/desorption isotherms and photoluminescence. Electrochemical measurements have revealed reversible redox behavior with doping/dedoping process corresponding to reversible cation intercalation/deintercalation into the crystal lattice of the nanoplates. This process is easier in propylene carbonate than in aqueous solvent and is easier for the small Li+ cation than larger ones K+. This is attributed to probable presence of two different tunnel cavities in the NaV2O5 lattice.