The synthesis and lithium intercalation electrochemistry of VO2(B) ultra-thin nanowires

Ultra-thin (<10 nm diameter) VO2(B) nanowires have been synthesised, characterised structurally and morphologically and their lithium intercalation electrochemistry investigated. The wires exist in bundles and exhibit significant preferred orientation. They have a capacity to intercalate lithium of 265 mAh g−1 (Li0.82VO2(B)) at a rate of 10 mA g−1 compared with thicker wires of 50–100 nm diameter which exhibit a capacity of 200 mAh g−1 at the same rate. The load curves, structure and morphology remain stable on cycling.