High-purity nickel hydroxide nanotubes were prepared by chemical deposition of ammonia and nickel ion with different concentrations within an anodic alumina membrane. The as-synthesized sample was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and high-resolution TEM (HRTEM). The as-prepared nickel hydroxide nanotubes are approximately 180～220 nm in an outer diameter and 20～30 nm in wall thickness. Further investigation on the electrochemical performance of nickel hydroxide nanotubes used as the positive-electrode materials of rechargeable alkaline batteries was studied. The results showed that the Ni(OH)₂ nanotubes have superior capacity, reversibility, high-rate discharge and high-temperature working ability. The mechanism analysis shows that the hollow Ni(OH)₂ nanotubes are promising positive-electrode materials for alkaline rechargeable batteries.

Key words: nickel hydroxide, nanotube, template, alkaline rechargeable battery