Nanomatrix of Co3O4–CuO nanoarray as novel electrode material for lithium-ion battery anode

Abstract

In this research, a novel integrated nanomatrix was synthesized via a smart combination of Co3O4 nanoshell and CuO nanocore using an environmentally friendly and cost-effective sol–gel method. The performance of the samples in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) was evaluated. The synergetic effect of intelligent integration, well interaction between Co3O4 and CuO, good dispersion, surface modification, controlled morphology, and decoration of the crystallite surfaces by using of metals and metal oxides can result in unique Co3O4–CuO (MʹO–MʺO) nanomatrix with a morphology similar to core–shell structure as anode material that exhibits enhance electrochemical performance. However, this core–shell structure can be demonstrated as CuO@Co3O4. As far as we know, the heterostructure of CuO@Co3O4 has not been reported so far. For this new nanostructure, low initial irreversible loss (initial Coulombic efficiency of 96% at a current density of 0.05 A g−1), specific capacity of 93.7% of initial capacity after cycling at high current rates and turning back to the initial current density are very noticeable. So MʹO–MʺO nanomatrix could be deemed to act as a promising alternative anode material in LIBs with commercial applications.