title: Direct conversion of multilayer molybdenum trioxide to nanorods as multifunctional electrodes in lithium-ion batteries.
abstract: In this study we prepared molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) nanorods having average lengths of 0.5-1.5 μm and widths of approximately 100-200 nm through a one-step mechanical break-down process involving favorable fracturing along the crystal direction. We controlled the dimensions of the as-prepared nanorods by applying various imposing times (15-90 min). The nanorods prepared over a reaction time of 90 min were, on average, much shorter and narrower relative to those obtained over 30 min. Evaluations of lithium-ion storage properties revealed that the electrochemical performance of these nanorods was much better than that of bulk materials. As cathodes, the nanorods could deliver a high specific capacity (>315 mA h g(-1)) with losses of less than 2% in the first cycle at a rate of 30 mA g(-1); as anodes, the specific capacity was 800 mA h g(-1) at a rate of 50 mA g(-1). Relative to α-MoO3 microparticles, these nanorods displayed significantly enhanced lithium-ion storage properties with higher reversible capacities and better rate performance, presumably because their much shorter diffusion lengths and higher specific surface areas allowed more-efficient insertion/deinsertion of lithium ions during the charge/discharge process. Accordingly, enhanced physical and/or chemical properties can be obtained through appropriate nanostructuring of materials.
authors.affiliation: Department of Physics, National Taiwan University, Taipei 106, Taiwan.
authors.forename: Mohammed Aziz
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Ibrahem
authors.forename: Feng-Yu
authors.initials: FY
authors.lastname: Wu
authors.forename: Desalegn Alemu
authors.initials: DA
authors.lastname: Mengistie
authors.forename: Chia-Seng
authors.initials: CS
authors.lastname: Chang
authors.forename: Lain-Jong
authors.initials: LJ
authors.lastname: Li
authors.forename: Chih Wei
authors.initials: CW
authors.lastname: Chu