Synthesis of Co3O4 nanocubes/CNTs composite with enhanced sodium storage performance

In this work, a composite with monodispersed Co3O4 nanocubes coated on CNTs (Co3O4-NC/CNTs) was successfully synthesized via a facile hydrothermal method. TEM images show that the Co3O4 nanocubes with a size of 3-10 nm were evenly scattered on the surface of the CNTs. The electrochemical properties of the Co3O4-NC/CNTs for sodium-ion batteries anode were systematically investigated. Taking advantages of the evenly dispersed Co3O4 nanocubes and unobstructed structure of CNTs, the Co3O4-NC/CNTs composite delivered a reversible specific capacity of ~ 441 mAh g− 1 after 100 cycles at a current density of 100 mA g− 1 and a rate capacity of ~ 258 mAh g− 1 at 1600 mA g− 1, which is much higher than the bare Co3O4. Therefore, the Co3O4-NC/CNTs composite with excellent electrochemical activity shows great prospect as anode material for sodium-ion batteries.