Two-dimensional porous Co3O4 nanosheets for high-performance lithium ion batteries

Abstract

Co₃O₄ has been widely investigated as a promising candidate as an anode material for lithium ion batteries. We report on 2D porous Co₃O₄ nanosheets synthesized by a self-sacrificing template method for reversible electrochemical lithium storage. The 2D porous nanosheet structures are constructed with numerous nanocrystals with a narrow size distribution, i.e., most of them are 15–30 nm in diameter. The 2D Co₃O₄ nanosheets with a porous structure may improve the structural stability and collaborative electronic transmission, shorten the diffusion path of ions/electrons, and increase the contact surface between the electrolyte and active material, leading to excellent electrochemical performances. Impressively, a high discharge capacity of 1000 mA h g⁻¹ is obtained at 400 mA g⁻¹ after 100 cycles. This implies remarkable potential as an anode for lithium ion batteries.