Topotactically synthesized ultralong LiV3O8 nanowire cathode materials for high-rate and long-life rechargeable lithium batteries

High-power applications at fast charge and discharge rates are still significant challenges in the development of rechargeable lithium (Li) batteries. Here, we demonstrate that ultralong LiV3O8 nanowire cathode materials synthesized by topotactic Li intercalation are capable of excellent high-rate performance with minimal capacity loss. A specific discharge capacity of 176 mAh g(-1) can be obtained at the current density of 1500 mA g(-1), and the capacity is able to stabilize at 160 mAh g(-1) after 400 cycles, corresponding to 0.025% capacity fading per cycle. For current density up to 2000 mA g(-1), the initial and the six-hundredth cycle capacities can reach 137 and 120 mAh g(-1), respectively, corresponding to a capacity fading of only 0.022% per cycle. The ability to provide this level of performance is attributed to a low-charge-transfer resistance, good structural stability, large surface area and suitable degree of crystallinity, and it indicates that LiV3O8 nanowires are promising cathode materials for use in high-rate and long-life rechargeable Li batteries. NPG Asia Materials (2012) 4, e20; doi: 10.1038/am.2012.36; published online 22 June 2012