CuO quantum dots embedded Cu3(BTC)2/CuO sugar gourd-like nanoarrays on copper foil as free-standing anodes for lithium-ion batteries with boosted performance

Abstract

CuO quantum dots (QDs)-embedded Cu3(BTC)2/CuO sugar gourd-like nanoarrays are successfully assembled on copper foil through a two-step wet-chemical growth method. As a free-standing anode for lithium-ion batteries, the resultant composite (Cu-BTC/QDs/CuO@Cu) delivers a high specific capacity of 813 mAh/g at a current density of 0.2 A/g after 150 cycles, and 452 mAh/g at 1.0 A/g after 500 cycles, demonstrating excellent cycling stability and rate performance. The superior energy storage capability is attributed to a synergistic effect from the individual components including the electro-active organic ligand, porous framework and CuO nanowires/QDs. As an efficient binder-free anode, Cu-BTC/QDs/CuO@Cu can be a promising candidate for the development of high-performance and cost-effective LIBs with exceptional energy density and power density capabilities.