Topochemical synthesis of cobalt oxide nanowire arrays for high performance binderless lithium ion batteries

Cobalt oxide nanowire array films have been prepared on large-area metallic substrates via a topochemical conversion route and have been demonstrated as advanced anode materials for high-performance lithium-ion batteries. Compared to previous reports, the cobalt oxide nanowire array electrodes will have good contact with the conducting substrates and an open space between neighboring nanowires, which provide an express pathway for charge transfer and facilitate diffusion of electrolyte into the inner region of the electrode. Besides these strengths, other ancillary materials such as binders and conductive additives are not required to enhance the system's conductivity and stability. After 50 successive cycles, the cobalt nanowire arrays are capable of retaining a specific capacity of 743 mAh g⁻¹ with a very small capacity fading of 0.13% per cycle.