Sandwich-Like Co3O4/Graphene Nanocomposites as Anode Material for Lithium Ion Batteries

In this work, sandwich-like Co3O4/graphene nanocomposites were synthesized by a facile hydrothermal process and subsequent thermal treatment. X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy analyses were employed to characterize crystalline structural and morphology. Results demonstrated that approximately 150 nm Co3O4 particles were dispersed among the graphene sheets. The graphene not only enhanced the conductivity of Co3O4/graphene nanocomposites but also improved the structural stability of Co3O4 nanoparticles. As an anode material for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), the Co3O4/graphene nanocomposites exhibited excellent electrochemical performance, higher rate capability, and longer cycle life than pristine Co3O4. The Co3O4/graphene nanocomposites maintained a specific capacity of 639.8 mAhg-1 at a current density of 0.5C (1C = 890 mAg-1) after 50 cycles with capacity retention rate of 71% Co3O4/graphene nanocomposites also exhibited excellent rate performance with a discharge capacity of 676.5 rnAh g 1 at a current density of 2C. Overall, the sandwich-like Co3O4/graphene nanocomposites are good candidate materials for high-capacity anode for LIBs.