Li4Ti5O12–TiO2/MoO2 nanoclusters-embedded into carbon nanosheets core/shell porous superstructures boost lithium ion storage

Abstract

Ti-based materials are well-known to be good anode materials for lithium ion batteries because of their negligible volume change during the charge/discharge process. Nevertheless, poor electronic conductivity makes them exhibit relatively low capacity. Herein, we report our design of three-dimensional hierarchical Li₄Ti₅O₁₂–TiO₂/MoO₂ nanoclusters embedded into carbon nanosheets core/shell porous superstructures for achieving more efficient lithium ion storage. The resulting hybrid makes full use of the advantage of high-capacity MoO₂ nanoclusters and robust Li₄Ti₅O₁₂–TiO₂ substrate as well as high-conductivity carbon nanosheets. Such an assembly is highly particular for not only endowing enhanced ion diffusion and rapid electron transfer, but also preventing MoO₂ nanoclusters from agglomeration and oxidation. Benefitting from the advantageous structural feature and synergistic effect of the components, the Li₄Ti₅O₁₂–TiO₂@MoO₂/C exhibits a high reversible specific capacity of 413 mA g⁻¹ at a current density of 1000 mA g⁻¹ up to 500 cycles, indicating its high stability.