Hierarchical porous carbon microrods composed of vertically aligned graphene-like nanosheets for Li-ion batteries

Abstract

Preventing the stacking of ultrathin 2D carbon nanostructures is a very important research theme in the field of energy storage. In this work, hierarchical porous carbon microrods (HPCMs) composed of vertically aligned graphene-like nanosheets are successfully fabricated via a facile Mg(OH)₂-templating method. The unique structure of the HPCMs is a desirable combination of 1D hierarchical structures, vertically aligned graphenes, and porous graphenes. With the hierarchical structure and pores, high specific surface area, large pore volume, and ideal charge transport and ion diffusion pathways, HPCMs are potential candidates for high-performance electrode materials. When used as an anode for Li-ion batteries, the HPCM electrode exhibits excellent capability (1150 mA h g⁻¹ at 0.1 A g⁻¹), rate performance (246 mA h g⁻¹ at 10 A g⁻¹), and cycling stability (833 mA h g⁻¹ after 700 cycles at 1 A g⁻¹), with measurements superior to those of natural graphite and many graphene-based anodes.