Flower–like NiCo2O4 Microstructures as Promising Anode Material for High Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries: Facile Synthesis and its Lithium Storage Properties

Flower-like NiCo2O4 microstructures were prepared through thermal decomposition of the Ni−Co- intermediate. The as-prepared NiCo2O4 microstructures are proved to be mesoporous according to the N2 adsorption-desorption experiments, which is beneficial for the improvement of the electrochemical performance. The as-prepared NiCo2O4 microstructures exhibit excellent cycling stability (1128 mA h g−1 at a current density of 1000 mA g−1, after 330 cycles) when being used as the anode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Even being discharged a high current density of 5000 mA g−1, the discharge capacity can still reach 948.1 mA h g−1. The superior electrochemical properties can be attributed to the unique 3D structure, structural stability and porous structure, all of which can effectively increase the contact area of the electrode-electrolyte and improve the stability of anode.