Synthesis and Characterization of Spinel $Li_4Ti_5O_{12}$ Anode Material by CTAB Assisted Sol-Gel Method

Recently, there has been considerable interest in $Li_4Ti_5O_{12}$ as a potential anode for use in lithium ion batteries. It has many advantages compared to the currently used graphite. It has a good reversibility but no structural change. The material has a theoretical specific capacity of 175 mAh $g^{-1}$. $Li_4Ti_5O_{12}$ powders are usually synthesized by a solid-state reaction of lithium and titanium salts. This method was generally preferred because the synthesis procedures are simple. But there are some disadvantages of solid-state methods such as larger particle size of the products, inhomogeneous distribution, lack of stoichiometry control, etc. These disadvantages can be overcome by sol-gel method. Using surfactant in sol-gel method is easy control on crystal growth and size of the desired products.