Full text: Download
In summary, we have designed and successfully fabricated a V2O5/PEDOT core/shell nanobelt array (NBA) on ultrathin graphite foam (UFG) as self-supported, binder-free positive electrodes. This is the first time that direct growth of V2O5 nanoarrays on current collectors has been realized. Such integrated electrodes exhibit ultrafast and stable Li ion storage performance, with higher capacities and improved rate and cycling capabilities than the bare V2O5 NBA on UFG. High specific capacities of 265 mA h g−1 at 5 C and 168 mA h g−1 at 60 C are achieved, which can maintain 98% of their values up to 1000 cycles. The key role of the PEDOT shell is explained as facilitating the charge transfer and hence the reaction kinetics, and also preserving the NBA structure.