In situ growth of mesoporous Co3O4 nanoparticles on graphene as a high-performance anode material for lithium-ion batteries

Co3O4/graphene nanosheet (GNS) composites were synthesized via the in situ growth of mesoporous Co3O4 nanoparticles on graphene. The as-prepared Co3O4/GNS composites exhibited superior Li-ion battery performance and showed a large reversible capacity, excellent cycling, and good rate capability when used as an anode material in lithium ion batteries (LIBs). The uniform coating of Co3O4 around the graphene surface ensured tight electrical contact, resulting in a material with higher specific capacity and enhanced cycling performance compared with pure Co3O4 electrodes. The composites delivered a reversible capacity of 900 mA h g(-1) at a discharge current density of 100 mA g(-1) with good cycling ability. Moreover, the composites showed exceptional high-current charge discharge performance, achieving 650 mA h g(-1) at a current density of 1000 mA g(-1). (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.