Heterostructured CoO-Co3O4 nanoparticles anchored on nitrogen-doped hollow carbon spheres as cathode catalysts for Li–O2 batteries

Abstract

Lithium–oxygen batteries have received extensive attention due to their high theoretical energy density and environmental friendliness. Herein, CoO-Co₃O₄ nanoparticles coated on nitrogen-doped hollow carbon spheres (N-HC@CoO-Co₃O₄) are prepared by a simple method, and N-HC@CoO-Co₃O₄ when used as the cathode material for a lithium–oxygen battery shows high catalytic performance. The nitrogen-doped hollow carbon spheres not only ensure an ultra-high specific surface area for the accommodation of the Li₂O₂ discharge products but also provide more reactive sites. CoO-Co₃O₄ nanoparticles supported on the surface of the nitrogen-doped hollow carbon spheres can effectively catalyze the formation and decomposition of worm-like Li₂O₂. The batteries assembled with N-HC@CoO-Co₃O₄ catalysts exhibit reduced overpotential, improved cycling performance, and high rate capability. Ultra-high discharge capacities of 24 265 mA h g⁻¹ at a current density of 300 mA g⁻¹ and 3622 mA h g⁻¹ at a current density of 1000 mA g⁻¹ are obtained. With a cutoff capacity of 500 mA h g⁻¹, the battery with an N-HC@CoO-Co₃O₄ electrode can reach more than 112 cycles. This research offers new insights into the design of heterostructured oxide catalysts for Li–O₂ batteries.