One step sol–gel synthesis of Li2ZnTi3O8/C nanocomposite with enhanced lithium-ion storage properties

One step sol–gel route was developed for synthesizing Li2ZnTi3O8/C nanocomposite, in which a thin layer of carbon was coated on the surface of Li2ZnTi3O8 nanoparticles. These nanoparticles were high crystalline and their size was found to be ca. 20–30 nm. The synthesized Li2ZnTi3O8/C nanocomposite was used as an anode for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries and exhibited a high reversible charge–discharge capacity, excellent cycling stability and high rate performance. A large capacity of 284 mAh g−1 can be kept after 200 cycles at a current density of 0.2 A g−1. These results can be attributed to the intrinsic characteristics of Li2ZnTi3O8/C nanocomposite. A thin layer of carbon on the surface of Li2ZnTi3O8 nanoparticles could improve significantly the conductivity and the anode made of nanoparticles greatly decreased the diffusion distance for lithium ions and electrons in the solid state.

The spinel Li2ZnTi3O8 nanoparticles coated with a thin layer of carbon were successfully synthesized and exhibited a high reversible charge-discharge capacity, excellent cycling stability and high rate performance.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► The spinel Li2ZnTi3O8/C nanocomposite was synthesized by using a one step sol–gel route.
► A thin layer of carbon with 2–3 nm was formed on the surface of Li2ZnTi3O8 nanoparticles.
► Li2ZnTi3O8/C nanocomposite exhibited a high reversible charge–discharge capacity, excellent cycling stability and high rate performance.