CuO/polypyrrole core–shell nanocomposites as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries

One-dimensional core–shell CuO/polypyrrole (PPy) nanocomposites are synthesized by employing CuO nanobelts as new wire-templates. Incorporation of flexible conducting polymers into the CuO nanobelts leads to improved stability, electric conductivity and electrochemical performance. When evaluated as potential anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, the novel CuO/PPy nanocomposites exhibit a high initial capacity of 991 mAh g− 1 and retain a good reversible value of 613 mAh g− 1 over 80 cycles, which are much better than those of the bare CuO nanobelts.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Core-shell CuO/PPy nanocomposites synthesized by a facile wire-template method. ► Incorporation of conducting PPy into CuO to enhance the conductivity and stability. ► 1D CuO/PPy nanocomposites demonstrate improved electrochemical properties. ► Hybrid CuO/PPy anodes exhibit higher capacity and cyclic performance in Li-storage.