A Novel α-MoO3/Single-Walled Carbon Nanohorns Composite as High-Performance Anode Material for Fast-Charging Lithium-Ion Battery

Orthorhombic alpha-MoO(3)is a potential anode material for lithium-ion batteries due to its high theoretical capacity of 1100 mAh g(-1)and excellent structural stability. However, its intrinsic poor electronic conductivity and high volume expansion during the charge-discharge process impede it from achieving a high practical capacity. A novel composite of alpha-MoO(3)nanobelts and single-walled carbon nanohorns (SWCNHs) is synthesized by a facile microwave hydrothermal technique and demonstrated as a high-performance anode material for lithium-ion batteries. The alpha-MoO3/SWCNH composite displays superior electrochemical properties (654 mAh g(-1)at 1 C), excellent rate capability (275 mAh g(-1)at 5 C), and outstanding cycle life (capacity retention of >99% after 3000 cycles at 1 C) without any cracking of the electrode. The presence of SWCNHs in the composite enhances the electrochemical properties of alpha-MoO(3)by acting as a lithium storage material, electronic conductive medium, and buffer against pulverization.