TiO2(B)@carbon composite nanowires as anode for lithium ion batteries with enhanced reversible capacity and cyclic performance

Novel TiO2(B)@carbon composite nanowires were simply prepared by a two-step hydrothermal process

with subsequent heat treatment in argon. The nanostructures exhibit the unique feature of having

TiO2(B) encapsulated inside and an amorphous carbon layer coating the outside. The unique core/shell

structure and chemical composition is likely to lead to perfect performance in many applications. In this

paper, the results of Li-ion battery testing are presented to demonstrate the superior cyclic performance

and rate capability of the TiO2(B)@carbon nanowires. The composite nanowires exhibit a high

reversible capacity of 560 mAh g1 after 100 cycles at the current density of 30 mA g1, and excellent

cycling stability and rate capability (200 mAh g1 when cycled at the current density of 750 mA g1),

indicating that the composite is a promising anode candidate for Li-ion batteries.