NH4V3O8 Rectangular Nanotube: A Novel High-Performance Cathode Material for Lithium Ion Batteries

Abstract The morphology and nanosize of cathode materials play a crucial role in the improved electrochemical properties of the electrode material for lithium ion batteries. Herein, we report the synthesis of a novel NH4V3O8 rectangular nanotube via a facile one-pot solvothermal protocol with the use of the mixing solvent containing glycerol, ethanol, and ethylene glycol. The morphology and nanosize evolution of the as-prepared NH4V3O8 materials from the addition of different solvents has been systematically investigated. The electrochemical properties of these materials are closely related to their structure. Compared with other synthesized counterparts with three different morphologies (nanoparticle, ultra-small nanoparticle, and hierarchical microsheet), the resultant NH4V3O8 rectangular nanotube exhibited high reversible capacity with a maximum discharge capacity of 253.8 mAh g− 1at 15 mA g− 1, and the capacity retention rate is 75 % after 50 cycles. This work reveals the relationship between the morphology and electrochemical performance of NH4V3O8 and provides a feasible method for the synthesis of high-performance electrode materials.