Multi-layer electrode with nano-Li(4)Ti(5)O(12) aggregates sandwiched between carbon nanotube and graphene networks for high power Li-ion batteries

Self-aggregated Li(4)Ti(5)O(12) particles sandwiched between graphene nanosheets (GNSs) and single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) network are reported as new hybrid electrodes for high power Li-ion batteries. The multi-layer electrodes are fabricated by sequential process comprising air-spray coating of GNSs layer and the following electrostatic spray (E-spray) coating of well-dispersed colloidal Li(4)Ti(5)O(12) nanoparticles, and subsequent air-spray coating of SWCNTs layer once again. In multi-stacked electrodes of GNSs/nanoporous Li(4)Ti(5)O(12) aggregates/SWCNTs networks, GNSs and SWCNTs serve as conducting bridges, effectively interweaving the nanoporous Li(4)Ti(5)O(12) aggregates, and help achieve superior rate capability as well as improved mechanical stability of the composite electrode by holding Li(4)Ti(5)O(12) tightly without a binder. The multi-stacked electrodes deliver a specific capacity that maintains an impressively high capacity of 100 mA h g(−1) at a high rate of 100C even after 1000 cycles.