1. Introduction
In general, the particle size of electrode material has a drastic
effect on the electrochemical performance of lithium ion battery
[1]. Reducing size of the electrode particles can effectively alleviate
pulverization problem, increase the electrodeelectrolyte contact
area, shorten electrons and lithium ions diffusion pathways in the
electrode [2]. However, small particles are not stable and easily
reunion during charge–discharge processes [3]. An effective way to
relieve the problem is to prepare micro/nano structure electrode
material. This secondary aggregated superstructure could not only
provide high surface area, but also guarantee stable structure and
favorable kinetics. Especially, micro/nano core–shell structure
shows satisfied electrochemical performance [4]. Cerium oxide
(CeO2) is a very useful rare earth metal oxide and has been extensively
studied in many fields. Recent progress has demonstrated
that CeO2 shows promising application prospects in lithium
ion battery [5]. However, little work has been published
concerning the preparation of micro/nano core–shell sphere CeO2.
Hydrothermal method is one of the most important technologies
in preparing nanomaterials. However, high reaction temperature
(above 120 °C) and pressure lead to energy-consuming and special
apparatus (Teflon lined autoclave) [5–7]. Thus, it is of great importance
to explore cheap and mild synthetic strategies to obtain
micro/nano structured CeO2 for enhancing its application.