10 - Functional nanofibers in lithium-ion batteries

Abstract

This chapter introduces the topic of lithium-ion batteries, including definitions, the development and work principles of Li-ion batteries and the application of nanofibers as anode materials. The authors successfully prepared porous carbon nanofibers (CNFs) by the electrospinning of a bicomponent polymer solution, followed by thermal treatments under a nitrogen atmosphere. It was found that they are formed with turbostratically disordered graphene sheets and have small pores and large surface areas. The unique structure of these porous CNFs was shown to result in good electrochemical performance such as high reversible capacity and good cycle stability when they are used as an anode for Li-ion batteries.