Surfactant-assisted synthesis of ultrathin two-dimensional Co3O4 nanosheets for applications in lithium-ion batteries and ultraviolet photodetector

Abstract

Ultrathin two-dimensional (2D) Co3O4 nanosheets were prepared by surfactant-assisted self-assembly method. We demonstrate a high reversible capacity and an excellent rate capability of ultrathin 2D Co3O4 nanosheets as anodes in Li ion batteries. At a current density of 100 mA g−1, the nanosheets maintain an extraordinary capacity of 1868.6 mA h g−1 after 30 discharge/charge cycles, and nearly 100% capacity retention. When the current is increased to 400 mA g−1, 112% of the capacity can be retained. With their ease of large area synthesis and superior electrochemical properties, the 2D Co3O4 nanosheets will be interesting for practical Li ion batteries. Additionally, 2D Co3O4 nanosheets also showed both high stability and reproducibility as ultraviolet photodetector.