In situ fabrication of Li4Ti5O12@CNT composites and their superior lithium storage properties

Abstract

In this paper, Li4Ti5O12@CNT composites are fabricated by a controlled in situ growth of CNTs on the surface of Li4Ti5O12. The formation of coiled CNTs occurs by the electroless loading of Ni–P catalysts on the surface of Li4Ti5O12. Coiled CNTs provide electron bridges interconnecting the Li4Ti5O12 particles to form a nano/micro-structured conductive hyper-network. The electronic conductivity of Li4Ti5O12@CNT composites is better than that of the sample before coating. As a result, Li4Ti5O12@CNT composites show superior lithium storage properties comparable to the pristine Li4Ti5O12. Based on electrochemical analysis, it is obvious that Li4Ti5O12@CNT composites can deliver reversible charge capacities of 149.2, 102.6, 73.3 and 47.5 mA h g−1 at 0.2 C, 10 C, 20 C and 50 C, respectively.