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 viii 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.