Mesoporous nanostructured Co3O4 derived from MOF template: a high-performance anode material for lithium-ion batteries

Mesoporous nanostructured Co3O4 was prepared by the direct pyrolysis of a Co-based metal organic framework (MOF) template at a relatively low temperature rather than a high temperature. When tested as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), this porous Co3O4 exhibited a greatly enhanced performance of lithium storage. The capacity of the porous Co3O4 retained 913 mA h g(-1) after 60 cycles at a current rate of 200 mA g(-1). Excellent rate capability was also achieved. We also found out that the Co3O4 prepared from the MOF template at a relatively low temperature has better electrochemical performance than that prepared at high temperature.