In this paper, we report an ionic liquid derived Co3O4/Carbon (Co3O4/C) material synthesized by a carbothermic reduction followed by a low-temperature oxidation, which is certified by XRD and TEM. The as-synthesized Co3O4/C composite has a uniform structure with well-crystalized Co3O4 embedded in carbon matrix (onion-like carbon materials). The carbon held tightly on the Co3O4 particles can prevent the disintegration of Co3O4/C composite during cycling and, therefore, improve the integrity of the composite. Moreover, the carbon component of the composite can enhance the dynamic characteristic of the Co3O4/C composite, which can accelerate the electronic conductivity. The composite delivers excellent lithium storage performances with outstanding cycling performance (868 and 877 mAh g(-1) after 200 cycles at a current density of 89 mAh g(-1)) and admirable rate capability (660 and 669 mAh g(-1) at a rate of 2C) in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), showing great prospect as electrode material for LIBs. (C) 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.