Co₃O₄/C/graphene nanocomposites as novel anode materials for high capacity lithium ion batteries

A nanocomposite, consisting of graphene intercalated with Co₃O₄/C hybrids, was prepared through thermal decomposition and carbonization of the precursor Co(NO₃)₂·6H₂O in solvent-free graphene fluids. Co₃O₄ forms the core of the hybrids and contains a “soft” interface with the C shell. The Co₃O₄/C/graphene nanocomposite was explored as the anode material in lithium ion batteries, and exhibited an excellent specific capacity of 1050 mA h g⁻¹, a value that is higher than the theoretical value of Co₃O₄ (890 mA h g⁻¹) at the current density of 100 mA g⁻¹ after 40 cycles. The Co₃O₄/C/graphene nanocomposite prepared via this route is easy and feasible, and opens up a new pathway to develop electrode materials for high performing LIBs.