Synthesis and electrochemical performance of novel core/shell structured nanocomposites

A new and effective method to prepare TiO2/C core–shell nanocomposites as active anode materials for lithium ion batteries with markedly ameliorated electrochemical performance is described. Initially a precursor, polyacrylonitrile coated nano-TiO2 particles, is formed by emulsion polymerization. This precursor is heat-treated under argon atmosphere to achieve the nanocomposite. The conductive carbon shell enveloped TiO2 nanoparticles and suppressed the aggregation of the core nanoparticles during cycling. In addition it is attached closely to the nano-cores, and the kinetics of lithium intercalation and de-intercalation, the apparent diffusion coefficient of lithium ions and the consequent cycling behavior are significantly enhanced. This provides a good way to improve cycling and kinetics of nano-anode materials.