Efficient and Stable Anode Material for Li Batteries: Utilizing Co₃O₄ Nanoparticles Modified Active Graphite Derived from Date Pulp

Abstract

To date, there has been extensive research conducted on Li-ion batteries to address the challenge of achieving both safety and high energy density. This paper describes the successful synthesis of an anode material for lithium storage with exceptional performance by utilizing cobalt nitrate as a Co3O4 precursor and dates as a carbon source. The carbon derived from the dates possesses several desirable properties, including a high specific surface area, hierarchical arrangement, satisfactory electronic conductivity, and remarkable mechanical flexibility. This carbon effectively maintains the stability of large-capacity Co3O4 particles. The electrochemical behavior of lithium cells containing the fabricated carbon electrodes was analyzed using various electrochemical techniques. As a result, the carbon–metal oxide composite electrodes in lithium-ion batteries exhibit satisfactory reversible capacity, cycling stability, Coulombic efficiency, and comparatively high-rate capability, which can be attributed to their unique structure that facilitates the rapid transport of Li+ ions.