TiO2 Anatase Nanoparticle Networks: Synthesis, Structure, and Electrochemical Performance

Nanocrystalline anatase TiO2 materials with different specific surface areas and pore size distributions are prepared via sol-gel and miniemulsion routes in the presence of surfactants. The samples are characterized by X-ray diffraction, nitrogen sorption, transmission electron microscopy, and electrochemical measurements. The materials show a pure anatase phase with average crystallite size of about 10 nm. The nitrogen sorption analysis reveals specific surface areas ranging from 25 to 150 m(2) g(-1). It is demonstrated that the electrochemical performance of this material strongly depends on morphology. The mesoporous TiO2 samples exhibit excellent high rate capabilities and good cycling stability.