Characterization of MoO3 nanorods for lithium battery using PVP as a surfactant

We synthesized MoO3 nanorods using poly (vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP) as a surfactant through the hydrothermal route for making a cathode for a lithium battery. Scanning electron microscopy images reveal the structures to have dimensions on the order of 1-10 mu m in length and 50-200 nm in diameter. Analytical techniques such as X-ray diffractometry, Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and cyclic voltammetry were used to characterize the nanorods. The measured specific charge of MoO3 nanorods prepared through a 15-day hydrothermal reaction was 156 mAhg(-1) during the initial discharge process.