Stereoselectively Assembled Metal–Organic Framework (MOF) Host for Catalytic Synthesis of Carbon Hybrids for Alkaline‐Metal‐Ion Batteries

Cost‐effective metal‐based nanostructured hybrids have been widely dedicated to potential energy storage and conversion applications. Herein, we develop a facile methodology for the synthesis of precise carbon‐confined hybrid nanostructures by stereoselective assembly accompanied by catalytic pyrolysis. Polyacrylonitrile fiber films favors not only metal‐polymer coordination, but also oriented assembly to ensure the well‐defined nanostructure of the carbon hybrids. During chemical vapor deposition (CVD), cobalt‐nanoparticle‐catalyzed growth of carbon‐nanotube branches driven by organic molecules (e.g. melamine) delivers hierarchical carbon hybrids. The resulting carbon hybrids exhibit outstanding electrochemical performance for metal‐ion batteries, for example, a high specific capacity of 680 mAh g−1 after 320 cycles (Li‐storage) and 220 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles (Na‐storage) without decay. Co‐workers: Cobalt‐embedded hierarchical carbon hybrids (CoCHs) were prepared through stereoselective assembly of a metal–organic framework (MOF) host and subsequent chemical vapor deposition (CVD). The morphology and composition of CoCHs can be precisely controlled. The CoCHs were exploited as anode materials for alkaline‐metal ion batteries, exhibiting a high reversible capacity in LIBs and prolonged cycle life for SIBs.