Lithium‐Ion Batteries: Hydrothermal Realization of High‐Power Nanocomposite Cathodes for Lithium Ion Batteries (Adv. Energy Mater. 3/2012)

Portrayal of a nanocomposite of crystalline LiMnO4 grown in situ within a conductive network of carbon nanotubes. This growth process results in inter-penetration of the octahedral crystals by the carbon nanotubes, providing increased electronic conduction throughout the material. Unlike conventional electrode fabrication procedures, the nanocomposite is obtained by a rapid new low-temperature reaction in water, as described by D. E. Morse and co-workers on page 309. When used as a positive electrode in Li-ion batteries, it provides very high power capability and offers significantly faster charging rates for future batteries. (Image: Rasmus Porsager)