Electrochemical lithium storage of C/Co composite as an anode material for lithium ion batteries

A novel C/Co composite with Co nanoparticles embedded in carbon matrix is synthesized firstly by pyrolysis of polymeric cobalt phthalocyanine (PcCo) at 700 °C in argon atmosphere. This composite is investigated as an anode material for lithium ion batteries, indicating high tap density and excellent electrochemical performance. The C/Co electrode can retain a higher reversible capacity of over 600 mAh g− 1 at a current of 50 mA g− 1 after 40 cycles and shows better rate capability and less hysteresis in comparison to carbon not containing Co. The significant improvement is attributed to the Co nanoparticles grown in-situ reaction with catalytic activity and high electrical conductivity.

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► A novel C/Co composite with high tap density is synthesized firstly by pyrolysis of polymeric phthalocyanine cobalt.
► Co nanoparticles grown by in-situ reaction are embedded in carbon matrix homogeneously.
► The C/Co composite shows reduced hysteresis, high capacity and good rate capability as anode of lithium ion battery.
► Co nanoparticles enhance electric conductivity and catalyze the reaction of C/Co electrode effectively.