Improving the Volumetric Energy Densities of Nanostructured V[sub 2]O[sub 5] Electrodes Prepared Using the Template Method

Membrane-based template synthesis was used to prepare nanostructured electrodes with high Li-insertion rate capabilities and improved volumetric charge capacities. Two methods were used to increase volumetric capacity. The first entailed chemically etching the template membrane prior to template-synthesis of the within the pores of the membrane. Chemical etching increased both the pore diameter and porosity of the membrane. Nanostructured electrodes were prepared by depositing an alkoxide precursor within the pores of the etched template membranes. The resulting electrodes consisted of nanofibrils protruding from a Pt current collector surface like the bristles of a brush. The second approach for increasing volumetric capacity entailed applying additional to the nanostructured electrodes prepared from the etched membranes. Results of investigations of the volumetric and geometric rate capabilities and the cycling performance of these electrodes are presented here.