In situ formation of flower-like CuCo2S4 nanosheets/graphene composites with enhanced lithium storage properties

Abstract

Flower-like CuCo₂S₄ nanosheets/graphene composites (abbreviated as CCS–G) were prepared by using a one-pot hydrothermal method. The morphology and structure of CCS–G were investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscope (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy. SEM and TEM images showed the hierarchical structure of CCS–G with flower-like morphology, which were composed of many nanosheets. As an anode material for the rechargeable lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), CCS–G exhibited the remarkably enhanced Li-storage performance in comparison with the pristine flower-like CuCo₂S₄ nanosheets (abbreviated as CCS). The reversible capacity of CCS–G is maintained to be 778.9 mA h g⁻¹ at a current density 0.1C after 60 cycles. Even at a high current density of 1C, CCS–G retains a much high specific capacity of 866.3 mA h g⁻¹ after 500 cycles.