Embedding nano-Li4Ti5O12 in hierarchical porous carbon matrixes derived from water soluble polymers for ultra-fast lithium ion batteries anodic materials

Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 /hierarchical porous carbon matrixes composites are successfully prepared by a facile and fast polymers assisted sol–gel method, aiming to promote both electronic and ionic conductivity. As indicated by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis, three less expensive cost and available water soluble polymers (e.g. PAA, CMC, and SA) can homogeneously react with Li–Ti–O precursor to incorporate into interior of nano-scale lithium titanate and provide a continues conductive network after pyrolysis. In addition, the results of scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy also prove that the Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 nanoparticles are firmly embedded in porous carbon matrix with no obvious agglomeration. EIS measurement and cyclic voltammetry further reveal that the facilitated electrode kinetics and better ionic transport of Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 /hierarchical porous carbon matrixes composites than that of Li 4 Ti 5 O 12 . The c-CMC-LTO exhibits a superior capacity of 92 mAh g −1 and retains its initial value with no obviously capacity decay over 200 cycles under an ultra-high C rate (50 C).