Low-temperature combustion synthesis of hexagonal WO3·0.33H2O@C as anode material for lithium ion batteries

Low-temperature combustion route is developed for the synthesis of WO3·0.33H2O with different amounts of carbon as a composite anode for lithium ion batteries (LIBs). WO3·0.33H2O@C nanoparticles have hexagonal crystal structure. The electrochemical properties are studied using cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge/discharge cycling. The electrochemical tests demonstrate that the lithium storage capacity of WO3·0.33H2O@C anode has been greatly improved by an appropriate amount of carbon coating, which could maintain a reversible discharge capacity of 816 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 100 mA g−1. Its long cycle stability and excellent rate capability are attributed to high electronic conductivity of the appropriate amorphous carbon layer and the unique hexagonal structure of the nanocomposite.