One-pot synthesis of a metal–organic framework as an anode for Li-ion batteries with improved capacity and cycling stability

Metal–organic framework is a kind of novel electrode materials for lithium ion batteries. Here, a 3D metal–organic framework Co2(OH)2BDC (BDC=1,4-benzenedicarboxylate) was synthesized for the first time by the reaction of Co2+ with a bio-inspired renewable organic ligand 1,4-benzenedicarboxylic acid through a solvothermal method. As an anode material for lithium ion batteries, this material exhibited an excellent cyclic stability as well as a large reversible capacity of ca. 650 mA h g−1 at a current density of 50 mA g−1 after 100 cycles within the voltage range of 0.02–3.0 V, higher than that of other BDC based anode. - Graphical abstract: The PXRD pattern and the cycleability curves (inset) of Co2(OH)2BDC. Display Omitted - Highlights: • Co2(OH)2BDC was synthesized through a one pot solvothermal process. • The solvent had a great effect on the purity of this material. • This material was used as anode material for lithium ion batteries for the first time. • Co2(OH)2BDC showed improved capacity and cycling stability