MAGNETRON SPUTTERED ZNO ON MWCNT FOR LI-ION BATTERY NEGATIVE ELECTRODES

In this study, ZnO/MWCNT nanocomposites are produced by magnetron sputtering radio frequency (RF) plasma process as anode materials for Li-ion batteries. The physical, structural, and electrochemical behaviors of the nanocomposite electrodes in the form of ZnO shell on the MWCNT core are discussed. The thickness of the ZnO shell is controlled by changing plasma power at the constant deposition time of 5 min. and the shell thickness effect is investigated on the structural and electrochemical properties. The greatly enhanced electrochemical performance is mainly due to the morphological stability and reduced diffusion resistance, which are induced by MWCNT core and deposited ZnO shell. The outstanding long-term cycling stability and rate capability is a result excellent reinforcement effect of the MWCNTs and functionally gradient material (FGM) structure. The nanoscale ZnO/MWCNT network provides good electrical conductivity, and the creation of open spaces that buffer a large volume change during the Li-alloying/de-alloying reaction.