Polycrystalline samples of NbSb2 have been synthesized and studied as anode material for lithium-ion batteries. The reaction mechanism of lithium with NbSb2 is investigated by ex situ XRD and cyclic voltammogram studies. Li3Sb and Nb are formed during first discharge and during charge lithium is extracted from Li3Sb. The first cycle discharge capacity is 420 mA hg(-1) and first cycle charge capacity is 315 mA hg(-1). (c) 2006 Published by Elsevier B.V.