On the synthesis of lithium boron nitride (Li3BN2)

Li3BN2 is a known lithium ion conductor and has been predicted lately to be a high capacity cathode for Li-ion batteries (Németh, 2014) [4]. In this study, we have investigated the synthesis of Li3BN2 through reactions between Li3N and h-BN powders. Effects of the reaction temperature, holding time and reaction atmosphere on the formation of Li3BN2 have been evaluated. Rietveld refinement of X-ray diffraction patterns of all powders has been performed to quantify the percentage of each phase. The results show that both the reaction temperature and holding time affect strongly the percentage of Li3BN2 in the reaction product. Furthermore, a trace amount of oxygen in the reaction atmosphere can negatively impact the purity of the reaction product because of the high affinity of Li3BN2 towards oxidation.