Synthesis and Electrochemical Properties of Germanium (Ge) Nanoparticles/Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes Composite as Anode Material for Lithium Battery

Germanium (Ge) nanoparticles/multiwalled carbon nanotubes (Ge/MWCNTs) composite is synthesized by solvothermal method combined with heat treatment under H2 atmosphere. The Ge particles are buried in MWCNTs network to form expected composite. The MWCNTs not only improve the conductivity of the composite but also act as a flexible matrix to buffer the volume change of germanium nanoparticles during the process of insertion and de-insertion in lithium ion battery system. The Ge/MWCNTs composite behaves better cycle performance and higher rate capability than those of pure germanium (Ge) nanoparticles. The Ge/MWCNTs maintained discharge capacity as 1040 mAh·g-1 after 60 cycles at the current density of 100 mA·g-1. It is a promising anode material for lithium ion battery application.