One-dimensional nanostructures as electrode materials for lithium-ion batteries with improved electrochemical performance

One-dimensional (1D) nanosize electrode materials of lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO₄) nanowires and Co₃O₄–carbon nanotube composites were synthesized by the hydrothermal method. The as-prepared 1D nanostructures were structurally characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. We tested the electrochemical properties of LiFePO₄ nanowires as cathode and Co₃O₄–carbon nanotubes as anode in lithium-ion cells, via cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge/discharge cycling. LiFePO₄ nanorod cathode demonstrated a stable performance over 70 cycles, with a remained specific capacity of 140 mAh g⁻¹. Nanocrystalline Co₃O₄–carbon nanotube composite anode exhibited a reversible lithium storage capacity of 510 mAh g⁻¹ over 50 cycles. 1D nanostructured electrode materials showed strong potential for lithium-ion batteries due to their good electrochemical performance.