TiO2/C composites nanorods synthesized by internal-reflux method for lithium-ion battery anode materials

Anatase TiO2/C composites nanorods were prepared via a simple internal-reflux approach under atmospheric pressure and subsequent carbonization. The oleic acid, which was used as the surfactant and carbon source, played an important role in synthesis and carbonization process. The TiO2/C nanorods prepared have high surface area and mesoporous structure, which are ascribed to the small diameter (2-4 nm) of nanorods and in situ formation of amorphous carbon, and both of those characters can improve the electrochemical property of TiO2/C electrode. The nanorods exhibit a high reversible capacity and improved capacity retention. The initial discharge capacity of TiO2/C composites is 411 mAhg−1 and still remains about 164.2 mAhg−1 after 50 cycles at a current of 177 mAg−1, when used as anode materials for lithium ion batteries.