In situ fabrication of Li4Ti5O12@CNT composites and their superior lithium storage properties

Abstract

In this paper, Li₄Ti₅O₁₂@CNT composites are fabricated by a controlled in situ growth of CNTs on the surface of Li₄Ti₅O₁₂. The formation of coiled CNTs occurs by the electroless loading of Ni–P catalysts on the surface of Li₄Ti₅O₁₂. Coiled CNTs provide electron bridges interconnecting the Li₄Ti₅O₁₂ particles to form a nano/micro-structured conductive hyper-network. The electronic conductivity of Li₄Ti₅O₁₂@CNT composites is better than that of the sample before coating. As a result, Li₄Ti₅O₁₂@CNT composites show superior lithium storage properties comparable to the pristine Li₄Ti₅O₁₂. Based on electrochemical analysis, it is obvious that Li₄Ti₅O₁₂@CNT composites can deliver reversible charge capacities of 149.2, 102.6, 73.3 and 47.5 mA h g⁻¹ at 0.2 C, 10 C, 20 C and 50 C, respectively.