Fabrication of metal-organic frameworks-derived porous NiCo2O4 nanofibers for high lithium storage properties

In this study, the NiCo2O4 nanofibers derived from metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) are produced through electrospinning, in situ growth with following calcination. The electrode materials with various morphologies are developed by adjusting the in situ growth duration. The NiCo2O4-6 (NCO-6) nanofibers grown for 6 h exhibit large specific surface area (SSA, 151 m(2) g(-1)) and massive pore structures. Upon applying as anode for LIBs, high discharge capacities of 1584 and 877 mAh g(-1) are delivered in the first and 300th cycle at 0.3 A g(-1). After cycling at different current densities ranging from 0.3 to 1.2 A g(-1), the reversible capacity of 970 mAh g(-1) is sustained once the current density is reversed to 0.3 A g(-1). Such an excellent cycle and rate stability of the prepared NCO-6 electrode is attributed to its distinct structure which significantly reliefs the volume expansion and consequently improves lithium-ion intercalation/deintercalation efficiency.

Automated summary

In this study, NiCo2O4 nanofibers derived from MOFs were successfully produced using electrospinning, in situ growth, and calcination. The NiCo2O4-6 nanofibers demonstrated excellent cycle and rate stability as an anode for LIBs, with high discharge capacities and sustained reversible capacity across different current densities. The unique structure of the NCO-6 electrode played a key role in relieving volume expansion and improving lithium-ion intercalation/deintercalation efficiency.