LAUSR

The self-standing ZIF-67 derived Co3O4@multi-walled carbon nanotube (MWCNT) interlayer is prepared without a binder and conductor. The hollow structure of ZIF-67 derived Co3O4 is confirmed through scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy analysis. X-ray diffraction analysis confirms the synthesis of ZIF-67 and the subsequent formation of ligand-free Co3O4 after thermal decomposition. Brunnauer-Emmett-Teller analysis also confirms a specific surface area of approximately 139.72 m2/g2. Through polarization measurements, it is confirmed that the Co3O4 acts effectively as a catalyst, reducing polarization by more than 22% compared to when it is not used. After 10 cycles, the capacity of the Co3O4@MWCNT cell is 1120.65 mAh/g, which is 315 mAh/g higher than that of an MWCNT cell (805 mAh/g). The Co3O4 promotes the conversion from Li2S4 to Li2S2 and Li2S, which leads to higher capacity. Moreover, the cycle stability improves by more than 28% by adsorbing more polysulfide through the hollow structure. Furthermore, it is confirmed that Co3O4@MWCNT exhibits approximately 33% less polarization compared to MWCNT even under high C-rate conditions (2C rate). Various electrochemical characteristics and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy reveal that the hollow Co3O4 physically and chemically suppresses the shuttling phenomenon.