Lithium intercalation into etched single-wall carbon nanotubes

The effects of structure and morphology on lithium storage in single-wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs) were studied by electrochemistry. SWNTs were chemically etched and were intercalated with Li. The reversible Li storage capacity increased from LiC6 in close-end SWNTs to LiC3 after etching, which is twice the value observed in Li intercalated graphite. The enhanced capacity is attributed to Li diffusion into the interior of the SWNTs through the opened ends and sidewall defects. (C) 2002 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.