TiO2 Anatase Nanoparticle Networks: Synthesis, Structure, and Electrochemical Performance

Nanocrystalline anatase TiO2 materials with different specific surface areas and pore size distributions are prepared via sol–gel and miniemulsion routes in the presence of surfactants. The samples are characterized by X-ray diffraction, nitrogen sorption, transmission electron microscopy, and electrochemical measurements. The materials show a pure anatase phase with average crystallite size of about 10 nm. The nitrogen sorption analysis reveals specific surface areas ranging from 25 to 150 m2 g−1. It is demonstrated that the electrochemical performance of this material strongly depends on morphology. The mesoporous TiO2 samples exhibit excellent high rate capabilities and good cycling stability.