A robust strategy for engineering Li4Ti5O12 hollow micro-cube as superior rate anode for lithium ion batteries

Abstract We report on the delicate design and controllable preparation of Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 (LTO) hollow micro-cubes by self-sacrificial template method and their application for lithium ion storage. The micro-nano structure of LTO hollow cube largely shortens the diffusion path of ion/electron, increases the contact surface and improves its structure stability. More importantly, the tailored Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 hollow micro-cubes electrode shows an excellent rate performance and high capacity with a reversible capacity of 184, 123 and 80 mA h g −1 at current density of 1, 40 and 100 C, respectively. Meantime, a reversible capacity of 125 mA h g −1 is obtained after 5000 cycles at 20 C with a capacity retention of 92.5%, implying its superior stability. As anode for full batteries, matched with different cathodes (LiCoO 2 or LiNi 0.5 Co 0.5 O 2 ), it exhibits prominent stability, compatibility with high energy density of 363.0 and 326.1 Wh kg −1 .