Synthesis of Ag-coated TiNb2O7 composites with excellent electrochemical properties for lithium-ion battery

Ag/TiNb2O7 composites are synthesized by a facile and effective solid state method and following solvothermal process. It is found that Ag nanoparticles are deposited on the surfaces of TiNb2O7 micro-crystals. When Ag/TiNb2O7 is used as the anode for lithium-ion battery, its 2nd discharge capacity is 275.3 mA.h.g (1) at 1 C, larger than that of pure TiNb2O7 (234.2 mA.h.g (1)); moreover, Ag/TiNb2O7 exhibits better rate capacity performance than TiNb2O7. The electronic conductivity of the Ag/TiNb2O7 electrode is increased for the incorporation of Ag nanoparticles, which can effectively improve the electron transport in the Li+ insertion/extraction process and accordingly enhance the electrochemical performance. (C) 2017 Elsevier B. V. All rights reserved.