Garnet-like Li7-xLa3Zr2-xNbxO12 (x = 0−0.7) solid state electrolytes enhanced by self-consolidation strategy

Garnet-like Li7La3Zr2O12 electrolytes with Nb doping are synthesized by self-consolidation method. Different from conventional methods such as cold or hot isostatic pressing, not any pressing assistance is employed throughout the preparation process. Although the preparation process is dramatically simplified, both density and ionic conductivity of the obtained samples are enhanced. Nb-doped content plays a key role in the sintering of the packed precursor powders and in the structure stabilization of the obtained bulk samples. The optimized 0.60 mol Nb-doped sample with relative density of 94%, fine particle boundaries, and solitary cubic structure possesses the maximum total ionic conductivity of 5.22 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 30 °C, which is comparable to the highest reported value of the samples prepared by conventional pressing methods. This work verifies that self-consolidation strategy is effective, reliable, and productive for the preparation of cubic Li7La3Zr2O12 electrolyte, which would significantly facilitate the development of ceramic electrolyte membrane technology.