Recent progress in Co–based metal–organic framework derivatives for advanced batteries

To date, Co–based metal–organic frameworks (Co–MOFs) have drawn much attention owing to their advantages of easy preparation, high porosity and adjustable structure. Because of these enticing properties, numerous efforts have been devoted to their applications in energy storage and conversion. However, poor conductivity has become one of the biggest obstacles for large–scale use of pristine Co–MOFs. Subsequently, many attempts have been carried out to develop various Co–MOF derived materials as electrodes for rechargeable batteries in order to address the above–mentioned shortcoming and to enhance the electrical conductivity with improved stability during cycling. Moreover, in addition to improvement of Li–ion batteries in practical utilization, seeking for other rechargeable batteries is another urgent task due to the high cost and limited sources of metallic Li. Herein, by following the recent research progress, this review provides an overview of applications of Co–MOF derived materials in various rechargeable batteries including lithium–ion batteries, sodium–ion batteries, lithium–sulfur batteries, zinc air batteries and other rechargeable batteries, where they have been utilized as cathodes, anodes, separators and electrocatalysts. Accordingly, we categorize and compare the morphology driven electrochemical performance of various Co–MOF derivatives including porous carbon, cobalt oxides, cobalt chalcogenides, cobalt phosphides and corresponding composites. Finally, current challenges for large–scale production and commercialization of Co–MOF derived materials as well as some reasonable solutions have been discussed at the end.