Scalable synthesis of Fe3O4 nanoparticles anchored on graphene as a high-performance anode for lithium ion batteries

We report a scalable strategy to synthesize Fe3O4/graphene nanocomposites as a high-performance anode material for lithium ion batteries. In this study, ferric citrate is used as precursor to prepare Fe3O4 nanoparticles without introducing additional reducing agent; furthermore and show that such Fe3O4 nanoparticles can be anchored on graphene sheets which attributed to multifunctional group effect of citrate. Electrochemical characterization of the Fe3O4/graphene nanocomposites exhibit large reversible capacity (∼1347 mA h g−1 at a current density of 0.2 C up to 100 cycles, and subsequent capacity of ∼619 mA h g−1 at a current density of 2 C up to 200 cycles), as well as high coulombic efficiency (∼97%), excellent rate capability, and good cyclic stability. High resolution transmission electron microscopy confirms that Fe3O4 nanoparticles, with a size of ∼4–16 nm are densely anchored on thin graphene sheets, resulting in large synergetic effects between Fe3O4 nanoparticles and graphene sheets with high electrochemical performance.

The reduction of Fe3+ to Fe2+ and the deposition of Fe3O4 on graphene sheets occur simultaneously using citrate function as reductant and anchor agent in this reaction process.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► Fe3O4/graphene composites are synthesized directly from graphene and C6H5FeO7.
► The citrate function as reductant and anchor agent in this reaction process.
► The resulting Fe3O4 particles (∼4–16 nm) are densely anchored on graphene sheets.
► The prepared Fe3O4/graphene composites exhibit excellent electrochemical performance.