Controllable Crystallization of Novel Rod-Based Cu2O Superstructures and Their Applications in Lithium Ion Batteries

Novel one-dimension (1D) cuprous oxide (Cu2O) 6-pod superstructures were successfully synthesized via one-pot low temperature hydrothermal route without using any template or surfactant. The architectures of these Cu2O superstructures include ordered and highly aligned Cu2O rods within the 6-pod outlines, where the length of rods can be adjusted by the concentration of Na2HPO4. The growth of 6-pod superstructures is controlled by diffusion-limited growth and chemical reactions. The concentration of Na2HPO4 aqueous solution played a crucial role in the formation of Cu2O superstructures, because it serves as buffer solution and adjusts the reduction reaction between glucose and Cu(II). The electrochemical performance of Cu2O superstructures was evaluated as anode material for Li-ion batteries.