Inexpensive synthesis of anatase TiO2 nanowires by a novel method and its electrochemical characterization

We demonstrate a simple, rapid, inexpensive and novel approach for the synthesis of a kind of anatase TiO2 nanowires. The method is based on a hydrothermal method under normal atmosphere without using the complex Teflon-lined autoclave, high concentrations NaOH solution and long reaction time. The as-prepared materials are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and electrochemical measurements. The obtained anatase TiO2 nanowires show excellent performance. The initial Li insertion/extraction capacity is 260 and 224 mA h g− 1 at 20 mA g− 1, respectively. In the 20th cycle, the reversible capacity still remains about 216 mA h g− 1, exhibiting excellent cycling stability. The discharging capacity is about 159 mA h g− 1 in the 20th cycle at 200 mA g− 1, demonstrating a good high-rate performance. Anatase TiO2 nanowires might be a promising anode material for lithium-ion batteries.