Mesoporous Co₃O₄ sheets/3D graphene networks nanohybrids for high-performance sodium-ion battery anode

Co₃O₄ mesoporous nanosheets/three-dimensional graphene networks (Co₃O₄ MNS5/3DGNs) nanohybrids have been successfully synthesized and investigated as anode materials for sodium ion batteries (SIBs). Microstructure characterizations have been performed to confirm the 3DGNs and Co₃O₄ MNSs nanostructures. It has been found that the present Co₃O₄ MNSs/3DGNs nanohybrids exhibit better SIB performance with enhanced reversible capacity, good cycle performance and rate capability as compared to Co₃0O₄ MNSs and Co₃O₄ nanoparticles. The improved electrochemical performance is considered due to the mesoporous nature of the products, the addition of 3DGNs, 3D assembled hierarchical architecture and decrease in volume expansion during cycling. Thus, SIB is considered as a low cost alternative to LIBs for large-scale electric storage applications.