Electrodeposition of Ni5Sb2 nanowires array and its application as a high-performance anode material for lithium ion batteries

Single crystal Ni5Sb2 nanowires array is synthesized by direct-current electrodeposition technique. The initial specific discharge and charge capacity of the as-produced Ni5Sb2 nanowires array electrode as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries presents 290.6 mAh g(-1) and 225 mAh g(-1) respectively at a current density of 60 mA g(-1). Its charge-discharge curve displays an excellent platform. Initial coulombic efficiency of the electrode is above 77%, and it becomes greater than 95% after several charge/discharge cycles. (C) 2012 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.