3D anatase TiO2 hollow microspheres assembled with high-energy {001} facets for lithium-ion batteries

Abstract

3D anatase TiO₂ hollow microspheres assembled with high-energy {001} facets have been synthesized by a one-pot solution method and their lithium storage capacity are investigated. The structural and compositional analysis of the mesoporous TiO₂ product has been performed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) along with selected area electron diffraction (SAED). The Bruauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) specific surface area has been calculated by the nitrogen isotherm curve and pore size distribution of TiO₂ microspheres has been determined by the Barret–Joyner–Halenda (BJH) method. It has been found that the as-prepared TiO₂ electrodes delivered high capacity, good cycling stability and rate capability. The improved electrochemical performance is attributed to the hollow nature and exposed high-energy {001} facets of the 3D assembled structure. Therefore, such a structure can be considered to be an attractive candidate as an electrode material for LIBs.