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.