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