Synthesis of copper oxide nanostructures via a composite-Hydroxide-mediated approach: Morphology control and the electrochemical performances as anode material for lithium ion batteries

Various CuO nanostructures with different morphologies, such as nanosheets, nanowires and nanobundles have been synthesized via a composite-hydroxide-mediated approach. The morphologies can be easily tailored by adjusting the concentration of precursor and the possible morphology transformation process is proposed. Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and galvanostatical charge–discharge test are employed to characterize the morphology, structure and electrochemical properties of the CuO nanostructures, respectively. It is found that different morphologies of CuO result in different electrochemical performances. Compared to others, CuO nanosheets exhibit not only high reversible capacity but also good cycling stability. The improved electrochemical performance is attributed to the novel 3D hierarchical nanostructure, which could relieve the stress caused by the drastic volume change and ensure good capacity retention.