Lignin-assisted one-step hydrothermal synthesis of Cu2O polyhedrons/C composites with an exposed (111) plane for superior Li-ion battery anodes

Abstract

It is of great importance to prepare metal oxides with the assistance of biomass. In this work, we firstly synthesized a Cu₂O polyhedron/C composite via a facile one-step hydrothermal method using lignin as a reducing agent. This plant-based reducing agent is widely distributed, rich in resources, and renewable, and it has a low pyrolysis temperature. The Cu₂O polyhedron with an exposed (111) plane and oxidized carbon fibers in the composition exhibited excellent lithium-storage performance with high specific capacity, stable cycling, quick diffusion kinetics, and superior rate capability. This work will undoubtedly accelerate the development of advanced Li-ion batteries.