Nanowires of beta-Ag0.33V2O5 phase with high aspect ratio have been prepared by hydrothermal method at 180 degrees C for 16 h with equal moles of AgNO3 and NH4VO3. Acetic acid was used as an acidifying agent and pH value was between 1.8 and 2.3. X-ray diffraction pattern indicates that the sample is monoclinic phase akin to AgV6O15. Field-emission scanning electron microscopy shows that the nanowires have widths in the range of 70 nm, thicknesses of 10 nm and lengths of approximately several mm. X-ray photoelectron spectrum measurements further confirm the component of AgV6O15. TEM and HRTEM were further used to characterize the products. The obtained sample might find possible application as ail electrode material in lithium ion batteries. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.