Synthesis and characterization of α-MoO3 nanobelt composite positive electrode materials for lithium battery application

α-MoO3 and PEO surfactant MoO3 nanobelts were synthesized by a solvothermal method. The morphology and nanostructure of samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Bare α-MoO3 and 12.5 wt% PEO surfactant MoO3 nanobelts have an initial specific capacities of 279 and 352 mAh g−1, respectively, at constant current density 30 mA g−1 with potential range of 1.5–4.0 V vs. Li/Li+. While MoO3 is modified by the intercalation of PEO, it is effectively shielded against electrostatic interaction between the MoO3 interlayer and Li+ ions. We reported positive material, a nanocomposite of MoO3 coated with polyethylene oxide. It presents good cycling stability due to existence of the conductive and protective polyethylene oxide coating and the nanobelt morphology of MoO3. The polyethylene oxide acts as a conducting matrix, a binder and an active material, as well as a volume change buffer agent, which holds the MoO3 particles in place during the discharge cycles. The cyclic voltammograms of the 12.5 wt% PEO surfactant MoO3 nanobelt composite displayed better cyclic performance compared with pure MoO3 nanobelts. The specific capacity of the pure MoO3 nanobelts and 12.5 wt% PEO surfactant MoO3 nanobelts exhibit as 199 mAh g−1 and 225 mAh g−1, respectively, after 9 cycles, suggesting that the stability of surfactant material is worthy.