Recent progress in Li-ion batteries with TiO2 nanotube anodes grown by electrochemical anodization

Abstract

Self-organized titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanotubes, which are prepared by electrochemical anodizing, have been widely researched as promising anodes for Li-ion batteries. Both nanotubular morphology and bulk structure of TiO2 nanotubes can be easily changed by adjusting the anodizing and annealing parameters. This is provided to investigate different phenomena by selectively adjusting a specific parameter of the Li+ insertion mechanism. In this paper, we reviewed how the morphology and crystallography of TiO2 nanotubes influence the electrochemical performance of Li+ batteries. In particular, electrochemical performances of amorphous and anatase titanium dioxide nanotube anodes were compared in detail. As we all know, TiO2 nanotube anodes have the advantages of nontoxicity, good stability, high safety and large specific surface area, in lithium-ion batteries. However, they suffer from poor electronic conductivity, inferior ion diffusivity and low theoretical capacity (335 mAh·g−1), which limit their practical application. Generally, there are two ways to overcome the shortcomings of titanium dioxide nanotube anodes, including doping and synthesis composites. The achievements and existing problems associated with doped TiO2 nanotube anodes and composite material anodes are summarized in the present review. Based on the analysis of lithium insertion mechanism of titanium dioxide nanotube electrodes, the prospects and possible research directions of TiO2 anodes in lithium-ion batteries are discussed.