Anatase/rutile titania anchored carbon nanotube porous nanocomposites as superior anodes for lithium ion batteries

Abstract

Anatase/rutile titania anchored carbon nanotube (TiO2@CNT) porous nanocomposites are fabricated using TiCl3 and polymer nanotubes as the titanium and carbon sources, respectively, by a hydrothermal process with subsequent heat treatment. As anodes for lithium ion batteries, the electrochemical performance of the nanocomposites is highly dependent on the crystal phase and content of TiO2. Compared with anatase TiO2/C nanocomposites, the TiO2@CNT nanocomposites exhibit high reversible capacity, excellent rate capability and superior long-term cycling stability at high current densities. The enhanced electrochemical performance of the nanocomposites results from the shortened Li+ diffusion distance, large contact surface area and sufficient conductivity. In addition, the crystal interface effect of mixed-phase TiO2 could improve the dispersion rate of electrons, which is conducive to the rapid transport of Li+ and the electrons.