In-situ embedding Co9S8 nanoparticles in polyaniline-based carbon nanotubes for enhanced lithium storage

In this work, Co9S8 nanoparticles embedded polyaniline-based carbon nanotubes (Co9S8/C nanotubes) have been prepared vis polymerization of aniline, rotary evaporation and further calcination, in which the melamine tubes from protonated melamine under the induction of NO3-, serve as templates for the preparation of PAIN tubes by polymerization. After calcination, PANI-based carbon nanotubes provide a good carrier for Co9S8 nanoparticles. The N doping in the carbon nanotubes and unique structure endow Co9S8/C nanotubes with good electronic and ionic conductivity. As a result, Co9S8/C nanotubes show favorable rate capability (645 mA h g−1 at 0.2 A g−1 and 524 mA h g−1 at 0.5 A g−1) and superior cycling performance at 1.0 A g−1 for 500 cycles, making them promising anode candidate for high-performance lithium-ion batteries.