Direct growth of high-rate capability and high capacity copper sulfide nanowire array cathodes for lithium-ion batteries

A general solution method for the growth of highly ordered large-scale Cu2S nanowire arrays onto the copper metal current collector substrates has been developed. The electrochemical behaviors of Cu2S nanowire array cathodes for lithium-ion battery applications reveal that they exhibit stable lithium-ion insertion/extraction reversibility, high reversible lithium storage capacity, long cycle life and outstanding rate capability. The superb electrochemical performance can be attributed to the nanowire arrays having increased reaction sites, improved cycle life in the face of mechanical strain and efficient charge transport. With the simplicity of fabrication and good electrochemical properties, the Cu2S nanowire arrays are promising cathode materials for the practical use in the next generation lithium-ion batteries.