TiO 2 Hollow Spheres Composed of Highly Crystalline Nanocrystals Exhibit Superior Lithium Storage Properties

While the synthesis of TiO 2 hollow structures is well‐established, in most cases it is particularly difficult to control the crystallization of TiO 2 in solution or by calcination. As a result, TiO 2 hollow structures do not really exhibit enhanced lithium storage properties. Herein, we report a simple and cost‐effective template‐assisted method to synthesize anatase TiO 2 hollow spheres composed of highly crystalline nanocrystals, in which carbonaceous (C) spheres are chosen as the removable template. The release of gaseous species from the combustion of C spheres may inhibit the growth of TiO 2 crystallites so that instead small TiO 2 nanocrystals are generated. The small size and high crystallinity of primary TiO 2 nanoparticles and the high structural integrity of the hollow spheres gives rise to significant improvements in the cycling stability and rate performance of the TiO 2 hollow spheres.