Lithium Ion Insertion in Titania Nanotube Powders Synthesized by Rapid Breakdown Anodization

Titania nanotubes are synthesized via rapid breakdown anodization and their lithium insertion properties are investigated. Anodization of Ti thin foil in perchloric acid produces TiO2 nanotube powders in less than 30 min. Annealing of the synthesized TiO2 nanotubes results in anatase and rutile phases from the originally amorphous phase. The lithium insertion performance of the TiO2 nanotube is strongly dependent on the annealing condition. Due to its simplicity and short time for synthesis, rapid breakdown anodization can be a viable option to produce TiO2 nanotubes for lithium ion battery applications. (C) 2010 The Electrochemical Society. [DOI: 10.1149/1.3418617] All rights reserved.