Template-free synthesis of Co-based oxides nanotubes as potential anodes for lithium-ion batteries

Abstract

Transition metal oxides as anodes for lithium-ion battery have attracted significant attention due to their high theoretical capacity. However, they usually suffer from poor cycling stability. Here, we developed a facile synthetic protocol for the preparation of Co-based oxides nanotubes without the usage of templates. By simply changing metal species, Co3O4 and binary Co-based transition metal oxides including MnCo2O4 and NiCo2O4 nanotubes could be successfully prepared. The crystallization of transition metal oxides and the thermal decomposition of organic compounds during calcination was proved to together prompt the formation of this hollow structure. Benefitted from this favorable hollow structure, the Co3O4 nanotubes showed superior cycling performance and rate capability compared with the solid Co3O4 nanoparticles when used as anodes for lithium-ion batteries.