Co/CoO@N-C nanocomposites as high-performance anodes for lithium-ion batteries

Heterogeneous element doping carbon-coated transition metal oxides has been reported as an effective way to increase conductivity and accommodate volume changes during the charge/discharge of lithium-ion batteries thereby improving structural stability and cycle performance. Herein, we have successfully synthesized Co/CoO@N-C nanocomposites using polydopamine as a source of carbon and nitrogen via a simple one-step method. Owing to its desirable structural features, the as-synthesized Co/CoO@N-C nanocomposite anode manifests a greatly improved initial capacity of 1541 mAh g−1 and retains a high reversible value of 1115 mAh g−1 at a current density of 200 mA g−1 after 125 cycles. The morphology and physicochemical properties of the Co/CoO@N-C nanocomposites were characterized to provide insights into the promotional roles of nitrogen-doped carbon matrix and CoO loaded nanoparticles. The results demonstrate the potential of the Co/CoO@N-C nanocomposite as a promising anode material for lithium-ion batteries.