Controllable synthesis of nanostructured ZnCo₂O₄ as high-performance anode materials for lithium-ion batteries

Nanostructured ZnCo₂O₄ anode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have been successfully prepared by a two-step process, combining facile and concise electrospinning and simple post-treatment techniques. Three different structured ZnCo₂O₄ anodes (nanoparticles, nanotubes and nanowires) can be prepared by simply adjusting the ratio of metallic salt and PVP in the precursor solutions. Charge-discharge tests and cyclic voltammetry (CV) have been conducted to evaluate the lithium storage performances of ZnCo₂O₄ anodes, particularly for ZnCo₂O₄ nanotubes obtained from a weight ratio 2 : 4 of metallic salt and PVP polymer in the precursor solution. Remarkably, ZnCo₂O₄ nanotubes exhibit high specific capacity, good rate property, and long cycling stability. Reversible capacity is still maintained at 1180.8 mA h g^-1 after 275 cycles at a current density of 200 mA g^-1. In case of rate capability, even after cycling at the 2000 mA g^-1 current density, the capacity could recover to 684 mA h g^-1. The brilliant electrochemical properties of the ZnCo₂O₄ anodes make them promising anodes for LIBs and other energy storage applications.