Anatase Nanotubes as an Electrode Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries

Abstract

Anatase TiO2 nanotubes were synthesized via the hydrothermal method followed by annealing at 500 °C in argon for 1 h. The phase structure, morphology, and composition were investigated in detail by means of X-ray diffraction, scanning and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and thermal analysis. The material consists of nanotubes with diameter of 10–15 nm and lengths of several hundred nanometers. The electrochemical properties were investigated by cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic cycling. The data imply a first cycle irreversible capacity of 385 mAh/g, and capacities of 307 and 265 mAh/g after the second and 50th cycle, respectively, at C/10. The Coulombic efficiency of about 99% after cycle 50 implies excellent cycling stability. Hence anatase TiO2 nanotubes evidence great potential for usage in high-power lithium-ion batteries.