In Situ CVD Derived Co-N-C Composite as Highly Efficient Cathode for Flexible Li-O₂ Batteries

To promote the development of high energy Li-O₂ batteries, it is important to design and construct a suitable and effective oxygen-breathing cathode. Herein, activated cobalt-nitrogen-doped carbon nanotube/carbon nanofiber composites (Co-N-CNT/CNF) as the effective cathodes for Li-O₂ batteries are prepared by in situ chemical vapor deposition (CVD). The unique architecture of these electrodes facilitates the rapid oxygen diffusion and electrolyte penetration. Meanwhile, the nitrogen-doped carbon nanotube/carbon nanofiber (N-CNT/CNF) and Co/CoN_x serve as reaction sites to promote the formation/decomposition of discharge product. Li-O₂ batteries with Co-N-CNT/CNF cathodes exhibit superior electrochemical performance in terms of a positive discharge plateau (2.81 V) and a low charge overpotential (0.61 V). Besides, Li-O₂ batteries also present a high discharge capacity (11512.4 mAh g^-1 at 100 mA g^-1 ), and a long cycle life (130 cycles). Meanwhile, the Co-N-CNT/CNF cathode also has an excellent flexibility, thus the assembled flexible battery with Co-N-CNT/CNF can work normally and hold a wonderful capacity rate under various bending conditions.