Self-templating synthesis of double-wall shelled vanadium oxide hollow microspheres for high-performance lithium ion batteries

Hollow structured vanadium pentoxide microspheres with multiple double-walled shells were fabricated from solid vanadium oxide precursors through ascorbic acid-assisted solvothermal growth. The interiors of the vanadium oxide microspheres and number of the novel double-walled shells can be readily controlled by adjusting the combustion of solid vanadium oxide precursors. The formation mechanism of the unique structures is elucidated and attributed to the diffusion controlled oxidation process in air. The obtained V2O5 hollow spheres with triple double-walled shells show improved electrochemical performance compared to single-shelled V2O5 hollow microspheres as electrode materials for lithium-ion batteries.