Graphene nanoribbon/V2O5 cathodes in lithium-ion batteries

Nanocrystalline V2O5 particles were successfully entrapped by graphene nanoribbons (GNRs) derived from unzipped carbon nanotubes. The electrical conductivity of V2O5 nanoparticles was enhanced after introducing the GNRs. The 3-dimensional conductive framework in the composites plays a significant role in improving the rate performance and cyclability of the material when used as a cathode in lithium-ion batteries. By tailoring the mass ratio between the GNRs and the V2O5 nanoparticles, the fabricated composites can deliver a high capacity of 278 mAh g(-1) at 0.1 C, which is close to its theoretical value, whereas a capacity of 165 mAh g(-1) can be maintained at 2 C. The delivered capacity at 0.1 C can maintain 78% of its initial capacity after 100 cycles.