Versatile by design: Hollow Co3O4 architectures for superior lithium storage prepared by alternative green Pechini method

Co3O4 open hollow structures were synthesized by a new green alternative of Pechini method that implies three simple steps: (i) an initial formation of Co2+- citric soluble coordination compounds, (ii) hydrothermal processing (180 degrees C) in the presence of fructose followed by (iii) air thermal processing of the as-obtained precursor. Benefiting from its exclusive structural features, this appealing hollow Co3O4 material demonstrated superior specific capacity, rate performance and cycling stability (specific capacity of 848 mA h g(-1) at an applied C-rate of 0.5 C with a coulombic efficiency of 98% after 250 cycles) in comparison with multi-shelled hollow spheres obtained in the absence of citric acid (525 mA h g(-1) with a coulombic efficiency of 97% recorded under the same conditions).