Carbon nanotube arrays and their composites for electrochemical capacitors and lithium-ion batteries

One of the greatest challenges for our society is to provide powerful electrochemical energy conversion and storage devices. Electrochemical capacitors and lithium-ion batteries are among the most promising candidates in terms of power- and energy-densities. The choice of electrode material is key to improving the performance of these energy conversion devices. Carbon nanotube arrays (CNTAs) and their composites show good capacity, excellent rate performance, and long cycle life when used as electrode materials because they present superior electronic conductivity, high surface area, developed porous structure, and robust properties. This review deals with recent progress in the fabrication, microstructure, and energy storage performance of different CNTA electrodes and their composites in electrochemical capacitors and lithium-ion batteries. In particular, representative examples of our CNTA-based electrodes are highlighted.