Multiwalled nanotube-coated mesophase carbon microbeads for use as anode material in lithium ion batteries

Abstract

The recent developments in lithium ion secondary batteries (LIBs) have been achieved by using selected carbon materials as the anode. Mesophase carbon microbead (MCMB) anode materials have stable Li intercalation and de-intercalation characteristics, making them a good anode material for use in LIBs. However, batteries with pure MCMB anodes are known to have a low power density. Multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWNTs) are one of the most promising materials for improving a range of electrochemical energy conversion and storage devices because of their unique physical properties, including high electrical conductivity and superior chemical and mechanical stability. Therefore, in this study, MWNTs were deposited on the surface of MCMB anodes to improve their electrical conductivity. The anode materials were separately functionalized using carboxylic acid and amine groups to form MWNT-COOH and MCMB-NH2, respectively, providing them with surfaces of opposite charge. The surface morphology was assessed using scanning electron microscopy, and the electrochemical characteristics were analyzed by cyclic voltammetry and AC impedance measurements in a coin cell. The AC impedance and cyclic voltammetry measurements indicated that MCMBs with MWNTs deposited on their surfaces are promising electrode materials, providing high power density for LIBs.