High efficiency TiO₂/MWCNT based anode electrodes for Li-ion batteries

Abstract

Freestanding multiwalled carbon nanotube and titanium (IV) oxide anode paper was prepared by vacuum filtration of multiwall carbon nanotubes/TiO2 hybrid material, which was synthesized by the radio frequency magnetron sputtering techniques. Field emission scanning electron microscopy images revealed that the carbon nanotubes (CNTs) form a three-dimensional nanoporous network, in which ultrafine TiO2 crystals that had crystallite sizes ranging between 7.14 nm and 12.21 nm were distributed homogenously over the surfaces of multiwalled CNT bundles. Electrochemical measurements demonstrated that the prepared powder by using 200 W radio frequency power had excellent cyclic retention, with the high specific capacity of 230 rnAh g−l up to 50 cycles at a current density. Freestanding papers composed of multiwall carbon nanotubes could act as a flexible mechanical support for strain release offering an efficient electrically conducting channel ,whereas the TiO2 provides the high capacity. The electrochemical response is maintained in the initial and further cycling process. Such capabilities demonstrate that this model hold great promise for applications requiring flexible and bendable Li-ion batteries. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.