CoO/NiSi(x) core-shell nanowire arrays as lithium-ion anodes with high rate capabilities.

This paper describes a facile chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and subsequent radio-frequency (RF)-sputtering approach for the synthesis of CoO/NiSi(x) core-shell nanowire (NW) arrays on Ni foams. The metallic core (i.e., NiSi(x)) with high conductivity acts as a nanostructured current collector. The as-synthesized CoO/NiSi(x) core-shell NW arrays have been applied as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, which deliver high cycle life and enhanced power performance compared to planar CoO electrodes on Ni foams. The high surface-to-volume ratio and improved electronic/ionic conductivity of the nanostructured electrodes may be responsible for the improved performance. This journal is © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2012