Metal oxide hollow nanostructures for lithium-ion batteries

Abstract

Metal oxide hollow structures have received great attention because of their many promising applications in a wide range of fields. As electrode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), metal oxide hollow structures provide high specific capacity, superior rate capability, and improved cycling performance. In this Research News, we summarize the recent research activities in the synthesis of metal oxide hollow nanostructures with controlled shape, size, composition, and structural complexity, as well as their applications in LIBs. By focusing on hollow structures of some binary metal oxides (such as SnO 2, TiO 2, Fe 2O 3, Co 3O 4) and complex metal oxides, we seek to provide some rational understanding on the effect of nanostructure engineering on the electrochemical performance of the active materials. It is thus anticipated that this article will shed some light on the development of advanced electrode materials for next-generation LIBs. Metal oxide hollow structures are promising electrode materials for use in lithium-ion batteries. This article highlights the recent advances in synthesis of high-quality hollow structures of metal oxides. The enhanced lithium storage capability of these functional materials is discussed on the basis of their unique structural features. Copyright © 2012 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.