Controllable synthesis of nanostructured ZnCo2O4 as high-performance anode materials for lithium-ion batteries

Abstract

Nanostructured ZnCo₂O₄ anode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have been successfully prepared by a two-step process, combining facile and concise electrospinning and simple post-treatment techniques. Three different structured ZnCo₂O₄ anodes (nanoparticles, nanotubes and nanowires) can be prepared by simply adjusting the ratio of metallic salt and PVP in the precursor solutions. Charge–discharge tests and cyclic voltammetry (CV) have been conducted to evaluate the lithium storage performances of ZnCo₂O₄ anodes, particularly for ZnCo₂O₄ nanotubes obtained from a weight ratio 2 : 4 of metallic salt and PVP polymer in the precursor solution. Remarkably, ZnCo₂O₄ nanotubes exhibit high specific capacity, good rate property, and long cycling stability. Reversible capacity is still maintained at 1180.8 mA h g⁻¹ after 275 cycles at a current density of 200 mA g⁻¹. In case of rate capability, even after cycling at the 2000 mA g⁻¹ current density, the capacity could recover to 684 mA h g⁻¹. The brilliant electrochemical properties of the ZnCo₂O₄ anodes make them promising anodes for LIBs and other energy storage applications.