In situ growth of CuO nanoparticles on graphene matrix as anode material for lithium-ion batteries

CuO nanoparticles are directly formed on graphene nanosheets through the in situ chemical decomposition of Cu(NO3)(2)center dot 3H(2)O and are anchored tightly on the graphene surface. The lithiation-induced strain is naturally accommodated, owing to the constraint effect of the graphene matrix. Electrochemical characterization shows that CuO nanoparticles anchored on graphene sample exhibits a high capacity of about 660 mAh/g at a discharge current density of 100 mA/g and a good cycling ability. During the charge-discharge process, graphene nanosheets not only served as a three-dimensional conductive network for CuO nanoparticles, but also improve the detachment and agglomeration of CuO nanoparticles. This CuO/graphene nanocomposite displays superior Li-battery performance with large reversible capacity, excellent cyclic performance, and good rate capability. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.