Unique synthesis of hollow Co3O4 nanoparticles embedded in thin Al2O3 nanosheets for enhanced lithium storage

Abstract

The designed synthesis of advanced nanocomposite architecture is significant for its applications in energy storage, catalysis, sensing, etc. Herein, thin Al₂O₃ hexagonal nanosheets with encapsulated hollow Co₃O₄ nanoparticles (Co₃O₄-HNPs) are successfully synthesized by using Co₆Al₂CO₃(OH)₁₆·4H₂O nanosheets as templates followed by a two-step annealing process. When used as an anode material in lithium ion batteries (LIBs), the homogeneous Co₃O₄-HNP/Al₂O₃ nanosheet composite exhibits an excellent performance with high reversible capacity and rate capability, and enhanced cycling stability.