Experimental Investigation of Cycling Characteristics of Anatase TiO2 Nanotubes as Negative Electrode of Lithium-ion Batteries

Abstract

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have emerged as a ground-breaking technology that

has revolutionized modern portable devices and facilitated the electrification of

numerous industries, such as transportation and grid energy storage, as a result

of the pursuit of sustainable and efficient energy storage solutions. Due to their

superior qualities, such as their high energy density, prolonged cycle life, and

lightweight nature, which facilitates greater portability, lithium-ion batteries

have been embraced as a replacement for conventional energy storage systems. A

consistent effort has been made to investigate developments in the field of

lithium-ion batteries in response to the growing need for energy storage systems

that exhibit improved performance metrics, including increased energy density,

faster charging capabilities, enhanced safety, and longer lifespan. The current

issues with current LIB technology must be resolved in order to use lithium-ion

batteries (LIBs) as a viable energy storage solution with increased capacity. This

requires the creation of new electrolyte formulations, cell structures, and

production methods. Nanotubes Anatase TiO2 (NT-TiO2) have been brought forth

via electrochemical anodization of 99.9% pure titanium foils in a fluorine

containing and four different percentages (10%, 20%, 30% & 50%) of Ethylene

Glycol (EG) electrolyte. After that calcination process is done at 5500C for 2h.

Different types of structure is observed in SEM images for four different

electrolyte type samples. Among them in 10% of EG electrolyte type, the

nanotubes NT-TiO2 is observed and by using this as anode the battery is

assembled and tested the electrochemical analysis. In the first cycle, the chargedischarge

capacities are 550 mAhg-1 and 400 mAhg-1, respectively, with columbic

efficiency 75.75%. At 40th cycle, charge-discharge capacities are found to be 375

mAhg-1 and 325 mAhg-1, respectively, and at this cycle, the columbic efficiency is

80%. The superior electrochemical performances of this type of battery were

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originated from its high specific surface area and highly nanotubes structure.

These advanced features of the nanotubes provide higher contact between

electrode and electrolytes, shorten the diffusion pathways for conductive ions

and electrons and ensure fast kinetics.