Synthesis and rate performance of Fe3O4-based Cu nanostructured electrodes for Li ion batteries

► Fe3O4-based nanostructured electrodes fabricated by electrodeposition. ► The electrochemical performance is closely related to the Fe3O4 morphology. ► Optimal nanostructured electrodes exhibit a large specific discharge capacity. ► Extended Fe3O4 electroplating is detrimental to electrochemical performance. ► Nanostructured electrodes significantly superior compared to the planar electrodes.