Synthesis of nanoporous spheres of cubic gallium oxynitride and their lithium ion intercalation properties

Cubic spinel structured gallium oxynitride has been synthesized through the reaction of metallic gallium and water in the presence of organic ethylenediamine. The relative content of the mixed solvent of water and ethylenediamine controls the product morphology and structure. A novel well-defined nanoporous structure has finally been obtained, whose large surface area and peculiar surface chemistry will generate novel physical and chemical properties. As an example, lithium intercalation properties for prospective applications in lithium ion batteries are demonstrated in this work. © 2010 IOP Publishing Ltd.