Direct growth of high-rate capability and high capacity copper sulfidenanowire array cathodes for lithium-ion batteries

Abstract

A general solution method for the growth of highly ordered large-scale Cu₂S nanowire arrays onto the copper metal current collector substrates has been developed. The electrochemical behaviors of Cu₂S nanowire array cathodes for lithium-ion battery applications reveal that they exhibit stable lithium-ion insertion/extraction reversibility, high reversible lithium storage capacity, long cycle life and outstanding rate capability. The superb electrochemical performance can be attributed to the nanowire arrays having increased reaction sites, improved cycle life in the face of mechanical strain and efficient charge transport. With the simplicity of fabrication and good electrochemical properties, the Cu₂S nanowire arrays are promising cathode materials for the practical use in the next generation lithium-ion batteries.