ABSTRACT
Pure CuC2O4·xH2O and CuC2O4·xH2O/carbon nanotubes (CNTs) composites are synthesized by a low-temperature hydrothermal process. The structure and morphology of the products are analyzed by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), thermogravimetric analysis (TG) and Raman spectrum. The results demonstrate that the as-prepared CuC2O4·xH2O takes on a microsphere-like morphology, all CuC2O4·xH2O/CNTs nanocomposites are constructed by the intertwining of tabular CuC2O4·xH2O nanoparticles (NPs) and CNTs to form a tanglesome net. When evaluated as an anode materials for lithium ion batteries (LIBs), all CuC2O4·xH2O/CNTs electrodes possess higher reversible discharge capacities (more than 1000 mAh g-1) than the pure CuC2O4·xH2O, up to 200th cycle at a current density of 100 mA g-1. The results illustrate that the addition of CNTs can enhance the electrochemical performance of CuC2O4·xH2O. Overall, CuC2O4·xH2O/CNTs composite can be a promising candidate used as a promising anode for LIBs.
