(229e) Cobalt Oxide, Multi-Wall Carbon Nanotube Polymer Network for Lithium Ion Battery Anodes

Much research has been focused on the field of energy storage in lithium ion batteries. A family of cathode materials consisting of a polymer network containing cobalt oxide, and carbon nanotubes has been prepared. This combination of the polymer network with nanocrystalline cobalt oxide and multi-wall carbon nanotubes provides a novel carbon framework capable of shuttling and storage of lithium ions. Colloidal cobalt oxide was first prepared by the thermal decomposition of a metal-organic precursor. The multiwall carbon nanotubes were in used in conjunction during the synthesis of the colloidal cobalt oxide. The polymer network was prepared by mixing nanocrystalline cobalt oxide, multiwall carbon nanotube solution, with poly(ethylene)imine solution and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, followed by calcination at temperatures ranging from 400^oC to 700^oC. Characterization of the anode material was accomplished using X-ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscopy. Electrochemical properties of the materials were tested in lithium ion coin cell batteries constructed in an inert atmosphere.