Anatase-TiO2 nanocoating of Li4Ti5O12 nanorod anode for lithium-ion batteries

Li4Ti5O12 nanorod coated by anatase-TiO2 is in situ synthesized via a microemulsion-assisted hydrothermal method followed by heat treatment at 550 degrees C in air. Compared with pure Li4Ti5O12, Li4Ti5O12 nanorod coated by anatase-TiO2 presents much improved electrochemical characteristics in terms of high specific capacity, excellent rate capability and cyclic stability (96.0% of initial capacity at a current density of 1.75 A g (1) up to 100 cycles). Acting as a perfect nanocoating layer, anatase-TiO2 contributes some capacity and gives an enhanced performance to the Li4Ti5O12 electrode. All the results suggest that Li4Ti5O12 nanorod coated by anatase-TiO2 could be suitable for use as a high-rate anode material for lithium-ion batteries.