Binder–Free Nanotubular Hetero‐Structured Anodes of α–Fe 2 O 3 (Hematite) and TiN for Li–Ion Battery

Hematite (α‐Fe 2 O 3 ) has attracted considerable attention as an anode material due to its high theoretical capacity (1,007 mAhg −1 ), low cost, and non‐toxicity. The conversion reaction, which often leads to the pulverization of hematite and degradation of electrochemical performances (e. g., capacity retention, high rate capability), is also found in hematite as Fe 2 O 3 + 6Li + + 6e – → 2Fe + Li 2 O. Here, we synthesized nanotubular hetero‐structures using α‐Fe 2 O 3 and TiN via atomic layer deposition (ALD) without any binders. The initial reversible charge capacity of Fe 2 O 3 @TiN nanotubes (NTs) was 952 mAhg −1 with a retention of 673 mAhg −1 after 30 cycles. Porous Fe 2 O 3 NTs with conductive TiN NTs exhibited enhanced electrochemical performances when used as an anode material.