Nanosized CoO Loaded on Copper Foam for High-Performance, Binder-Free Lithium-Ion Batteries

The synthesis of nanosized CoO anodes with unique morphologies via a hydrothermal method is investigated. By adjusting the pH values of reaction solutions, nanoflakes (CoO-NFs) and nanoflowers (CoO-FLs) are successfully located on copper foam. Compared with CoO-FLs, CoO-NFs as anodes for lithium ion batteries present ameliorated lithium storage properties, such as good rate capability, excellent cycling stability, and large reversible capacity. The initial discharge capacity is 1470 mA h g(-1), while the reversible capacity is maintained at 1776 m Ah g(-1) after 80 cycles at a current density of 100 mA h g(-1). The excellent electrochemical performance is ascribed to enough free space and enhanced conductivity, which play crucial roles in facilitating electron transport during repetitive Li+ intercalation and extraction reaction as well as buffering the volume expansion.