Nanocrystal-constructed mesoporous single-crystalline Co₃O₄ nanobelts with superior rate capability for advanced lithium-ion batteries.

In this paper, one-dimensional (1D) mesoporous single-crystalline Co₃O₄ nanobelts are synthesized by a facile hydrothermal method followed by calcination treatment. The as-prepared nanobelts have unique mesoporous structures, which are constructed by many interconnected nanocrystals with sizes of about 20-30 nm. And typical size of the nanobelts is in the range of 100-300 nm in width and up to several micrometers in length. The BET surface area of Co₃O₄ nanobelts is determined to be about 36.5 m² g⁻¹ with dominant pore diameter of 29.2 nm. Because of the 1D structure, mesoporous morphologies and scrupulous nanoarchitectures, the Co₃O₄ nanobelts show excellent electrochemical performances such as high storage capacity and superior rate capability. The specific capacity of Co₃O₄ nanobelts could remains over 614 mA h g⁻¹ at a current density of 1 A g⁻¹ after 60 cycles. Even at a high current density of 3 A g⁻¹, these Co₃O₄ nanobelts still could deliver a remarkable discharge capacity of 605 mA h g⁻¹ with good cycling stability.