Cobalt(II,III) oxide hollow structures : Fabrication, properties and applications

Hollow structured semiconductor oxide materials have been paid more and more attention due to their potential applications in many areas. Cobalt(ii,iii) oxide (Co₃O₄) is an important semiconductor oxide and its synthesis and properties have been of growing interest owing to prominent applications in several fields. This article provides a comprehensive review of the state-of-the-art research activities that concentrate on the rational synthesis, novel properties and unique applications of Co₃O ₄ hollow structures in nanotechnology. It begins with the rational design and fabrication of such structures, and then highlights a range of their unique properties and applications (e.g. magnetic, catalytic and superhydrophobic properties, lithium-ion batteries, supercapacitors, water treatment, gas sensing). Finally, the feature article is concluded with the authors' outlook of the perspectives with respect to future research on Co ₃O₄ hollow structures. © The Royal Society of Chemistry 2012.