Reduced graphene oxide/CoFe2O4–Co nanocomposite as high performance anode for lithium ion batteries

• Fabrication of graphene and CoFe2O4–Co nanocomposite for lithium ion batteries anode.
• The presence of graphene and metallic Co leads to stable structure.
• The well-designed structure results in fine interfacial interaction.
• The nanocomposite shows high rate capability and long cycling stability.

Reduced graphene oxide/CoFe2O4–Co (RGO/CFC) nanocomposite was first prepared by a facile hydrothermal strategy and subsequently in situ reduction process. X-ray diffraction, Raman spectra, and scanning electron microscopy are employed to characterize the structure and morphology of the as-prepared RGO/CFC nanocomposite. The electrochemical performances of the nanocomposite were evaluated in coin-type cells. It delivers high reversible capacity of 921.8 mA h g−1 at various rates from 100 to 1600 mA g−1 after 70 cycles. Even after 420 cycles at 9000 mA g−1, the capacity still retains 907.3 mA h g−1 at 100 mA g−1, indicating outstanding rate capability and cycle stability. The improved electrochemical performance is ascribed to the strong interfacial interaction between CFC nanoparticles (30 nm) and RGO nanosheets. The RGO/CFC nanocomposite with super long cycling life will be an ideal candidate of anode material for lithium ion batteries.