Co3O4 Nanoparticles : Synthesis, Characterization and Its Application as Performing Anode in Li-Ion Batteries

In this research, a convenient, simple and rapid route for the preparation of Co3O4 nanoparticles using the calcination of Co(NO3)2∙6H2O at the presence of benzoic acid (1:1 weight ratio) is reported. Further, the as-prepared Co3O4 nanoparticles were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). XRD result confirmed the Co3O4 nanoparticles are pure phase and the average crystallite size for Co3O4 nanoparticles was found 77 nm. The TEM images reveal nanoparticles with size ranging from 50 to 100 nm, which is in conformity with the calculation of average crystallite sizes from XRD patterns. Furthermore, the prepared Co3O4 nanoparticles were investigated as an anode material for Li-ion batteries. Results showed that the Co3O4 nanoparticles exhibited excellent electrochemical performance and cycling stability, a capacity of 1127 mA h g-1 was obtained at 100 mAg-1 and the samples exhibited stable discharge behavior up to 130 cycles with high rate capability.