Surface modification of electrospun TiO2 nanofibers via layer-by-layer self-assembly for high-performance lithium-ion batteries

Abstract

An economical route based on electrospinning and layer-by-layer (LBL) self-assembly processes has been developed to synthesize unique MoO₂-modified TiO₂ nanofibers, comprising a core of TiO₂ nanofibers and a thin metal-like MoO₂ nanolayer. The thickness of the MoO₂ nanolayer can be tuned by altering the precursor concentration or the LBL cycles. When evaluated for their lithium-storage properties, the MoO₂-modified TiO₂ nanofibers exhibit a high discharge capacity of 514.5 mA h g⁻¹ at 0.2 C over 50 cycles and excellent rate capability, demonstrating that enhanced physical and/or chemical properties can be achieved through proper surface modification.