Self-template processed hierarchical V₂O₅ nanobelts as cathode for high performance lithium ion battery

Hierarchically nanostructured materials have proven their superiority in high performance lithium ion batteries. Herein, we successfully fabricate hierarchical vanadium pentoxide (V₂O₅) nanobelts by an economical and facile hydrothermal strategy followed by annealing treatment. A self-template growth of hierarchical V₂O₅ nanobelts was achieved from precursor VO₂ (B) nanobelts, resulting in open structure of hierarchical V₂O₅ nanobelts composed of plate-like V₂O₅ nanocrystals and tiny haircuts. The hierarchical nanobelts deliver a high specific surface area of 137.5 m² g^-1. When used as the cathode material for lithium ion battery, the hierarchical V₂O₅ nanobelts exhibit high discharge capacity of 288 mAh g^-1, which maintain 246 mAh g^-1 at the end of 50th cycle with capacity retention of 85.4 %.The present electrochemical results demonstrate the high discharge capacity, superior cycling stability and rate capability of the hierarchical V₂O₅ nanobelts, which could be attributed to the advantages of unique hierarchical nanobelt structure.