Fabrication and electrochemical characterization of TiO2 three-dimensional nanonetwork based on peptide assembly.

The three-dimensional network of TiO(2) hollow nanoribbons designed from a peptide assembly using atomic layer deposition is demonstrated as a promising Li secondary battery electrode in this study. The nanoribbon network ensures effective transport of electrons and Li ions due to (i) a well-connected network of nanoribbons and (ii) the hollow structure of each nanoribbon itself, into which Li ions in the electrolyte can readily diffuse. The improved specific capacity, rate capability, and cyclability of the nanonetwork show that the utilization of a nanonetwork of individual hollow ribbons can serve as a promising strategy toward the development of high-performance electrode for Li secondary batteries.