3D CuO Network Supported TiO2 Nanosheets with Applications for Energy Storage and Water Splitting

A nano composite was fabricated by constructing CuO nanoplates 3D network (CNP) and supporting TiO2 nanosheets on the network. As synthesized CuO nanoplates (CNP) intersect with each other and form a three-dimensional (3D) conductive frame, which enables the TiO2 nanosheets (TNS) exist on CNP without aggregation and electrolyte permeate it sufficiently. The well established PN junction and enhancement in charge transport in the composite are proved by the photocatalytic water splitting. The H-2 evolution rate is twice higher than that of pristine TNS. The composite was used as anode for LIBs and a notable charging/discharging plateaus can be observed in the potential window of CuO. And the enhancement in energy storage was attributed to the formation of a binary 3D nanostructure.