TiO2(B) nanofiber bundles as a high performance anode for a Li-ion battery

Abstract

TiO₂(B) nanofiber bundles have been successfully synthesized by a facile method. Compared with conventional nanosized/nanostructured TiO₂(B), the as-prepared sample displays a much lower surface area. It was demonstrated that the as-prepared TiO₂(B) displays both good rate ability and long cycle life for Li-storage in a non-aqueous electrolyte. The TiO₂(B)-based electrode can still maintain ∼80% of its initial reversible capacity over 2000 cycles. In addition, the as-prepared TiO₂ was coupled with LiFePO₄ to form a rechargeable Li-ion battery, which shows good reversibility with a sloping voltage from 1.5 to 2.3 V, high power performance as well as a promising cycle life. Finally, the charge storage ability of the TiO₂(B)/LiFePO₄ battery was compared with that of a Li₄Ti₅O₁₂/LiFePO₄ battery. The inherent slope potential profile of the TiO₂(B) anode effectively widens the charge storage voltage window of the TiO₂(B)/LiFePO₄ battery, and thus makes the TiO₂(B)/LiFePO₄ battery exhibit a better charge storage ability.