Synthesis, Characterization, and Electrochemical Properties of Cu3V2O7(OH)2·2H2O Nanostructures

We report on the shape-controlled synthesis, characterization, and electrochemical properties of Cu3V2O7(OH)2·2H2O nanomaterials that were synthesized through a simple and facile solution route without any surfactants or template. It was found that by simply controlling the reaction conditions, Cu3V2O7(OH)2·2H2O nanowires, nanoflakes, and nanoparticles can be selectively prepared. Electrochemical measurements revealed that the as-prepared Cu3V2O7(OH)2·2H2O nanowires, nanoflakes, and nanoparticles exhibited high discharge capacities and ideal shaped discharge curves. In particular, the Cu3V2O7(OH)2·2H2O nanowires showed capacities much higher than those of Cu3V2O7(OH)2·2H2O nanoflakes, nanoparticles, and commercial Ag2V4O11 bulk. The correlation between the specific structural features of the nanowires and their superior electrode performance were also discussed. It is anticipated that the novel Cu3V2O7(OH)2·2H2O nanowires are promising cathode candidates in the application of primary lithium ion batteries for implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs).