One-dimensional nanostructures as electrode materials for lithium-ion batteries with improved electrochemical performance

Abstract

One-dimensional (1D) nanosize electrode materials of lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO 4) nanowires and Co 3O 4–carbon nanotube composites were synthesized by the hydrothermal method. The as-prepared 1D nanostructures were structurally characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. We tested the electrochemical properties of LiFePO 4 nanowires as cathode and Co 3O 4–carbon nanotubes as anode in lithium-ion cells, via cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge/discharge cycling. LiFePO 4 nanorod cathode demonstrated a stable performance over 70 cycles, with a remained specific capacity of 140 mAh g −1. Nanocrystalline Co 3O 4–carbon nanotube composite anode exhibited a reversible lithium storage capacity of 510 mAh g −1 over 50 cycles. 1D nanostructured electrode materials showed strong potential for lithium-ion batteries due to their good electrochemical performance.