Interpenetrated Networks between Graphitic Carbon Infilling and Ultrafine TiO Nanocrystals with Patterned Macroporous Structure for High-Performance Lithium Ion Batteries.

Interpenetrated networks between graphitic carbon infilling and ultrafine TiO nanocrystals with patterned macropores (100-200 nm) were successfully synthesized. Polypyrrole layer was conformably coated on the primary TiO nanoparticles (∼8 nm) by a photosensitive reaction and was then transformed into carbon infilling in the interparticle mesopores of the TiO nanoparticles. Compared to the carbon/graphene supported TiO nanoparticles or carbon coated TiO nanostructures, the carbon infilling would provide a conductive medium and buffer layer for volume expansion of the encapsulated TiO nanoparticles, thus enhancing conductivity and cycle stability of the C-TiO anode materials for lithium ion batteries (LIBs).