NiO nanocone arrays are fabricated on nickel foam substrate by a simple hydrothermal synthesis anda subsequent annealing in air. The obtained architecture is directly used as an anode for lithium-ion batteries without any binder. It delivers a capacity of 969 mAh g(-1) in the 120th cycle at a current density of 0.5 degrees C. Even at 10 degrees C, the electrode can still deliver a capacity as high as 605.9 mAh g(-1). The excellent electrochemical performance could be ascribed to the integrity and porosity of the cycled electrodes. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.