Synthesis of carbon nanotubes anchored with mesoporous Co3O4 nanoparticles as anode material for lithium-ion batteries

In this study, functionalized carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with good conductivity and high surface area are anchored with mesoporous Co3O4 nanoparticles by a facile chemical co-precipitation method. Electrochemical characterizations show that Co3O4/CNT nanocomposite delivers a capacity of 873 mAh g(-1) after 50 cycles at a current density of 100 mAg(-1). When the current density is increased to 250, 350 and 500 mAg(-1), it still maintains a capacity of 895, 834 and 757 mAh g(-1), respectively. The high capacity, rate capability and good cycling ability of Co3O4/CNT nanocomposite are attributed to the intimate interaction between the CNTs and Co3O4 nanoparticles. The CNTs not only enhance the conductivity of Co3O4 nanoparticles but also improve the structure stability of Co3O4 nanoparticles. Furthermore, the mesoporous structure of Co3O4 nanoparticles is available to the transfer of electrolyte. Our results demonstrate that CNTs reinforced Co3O4 nanocomposite could be a promising anode material for high capacity lithium-ion batteries. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.