One-dimensional strips of NiO, comprising self-assembled nanoparticles, were created through a thermal decomposition method using nickel dimethylglyoximate (Ni(dmg)(2)) as starting agent. The morphology of the precursor was maintained during the heating process, while the size of the subunits was tailored by adjusting the calcining temperature. Raman spectrum revealed that many vacancies existed in the product which was obtained at a relatively lower temperature. Thus-prepared nanostructured NiO with subunits of about 15 nm exhibited a first discharge specific capacity of 784 mA h g(-1) vs. Li metal, much higher than that of the sample with bigger building blocks. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.