Porous CoP/C derived from metal-organic framework as high-performance anode materials for superior lithium storage

CoP has attracted increasing attention due to its high theoretical capacity for lithium storage. However, CoP suffers from a large volume expansion during cycling, which leads to electrode pulverization and poor cycle stability. In addition, the conductivity of CoP is poor, resulting in undesirable rate performance. To solve this problem, the CoP/C composite was prepared based on the in-situ phosphating heat treatment technology of Co-BTC MOF. The as prepared CoP/C exhibits a good lithium storage specific capacity and a cycle stability, which is attributed by the synergistic effect of the porous nanostructure and carbon frame. The porous nanostructure of the CoP/C allows the electrolyte to easily penetrate into the interior, which increases the number of electrochemical reaction sites while effectively mitigating the volume expansion during lithiation and improving electrical conductivity. Thanks to the special structures, the discharge specific capacity of the Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) based the CoP/C as anode materials is 645.7 mAh g(-1) after 200 cycles at a current density of 200 mA g(-1). This work demonstrates that the CoP/C has a great potential as a next generation anode material for LIBs.