Synthesis of carbon-coated TiO2 nanotubes for high-power lithium-ion batteries

Carbon-coated TiO2 nanotubes are prepared by a simple one-step hydrothermal method with an addition of glucose in the starting powder, and are characterized by morphological analysis and electrochemical measurement. A thin carbon coating on the nanotube surface effectively suppresses severe agglomeration of TiO2 nanotubes during hydrothermal reaction and post calcination. This action results in better ionic and electronic kinetics when applied to lithium-ion batteries. Consequently, carbon-coated TiO2 nanotubes deliver a remarkable lithium-ion intercalation/deintercalation performance, such as reversible capacities of 286 and 150 mAh g−1 at 250 and 7500 mA g−1, respectively.

Research highlights
► Carbon-coated TiO2 nanotubes were synthesized by one-pot hydrothermal method.
► Carbon coating effectively suppressed the agglomeration of TiO2 nanotubes during hydrothermal reaction and post-calcination.
► Carbon-coated TiO2 nanotube anode exhibited a superior reversible capacity and high-rate capability.