An Fe3O4–FeO–Fe@C composite and its application as anode for lithium-ion battery

An Fe3O4–FeO–Fe@C composite material has been successfully synthesized by a one-pot hydrothermal method without any templates and a sequential heat treatment process. X-ray diffraction, Raman spectrometry, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and galvanostatic cell cycling have been used to characterize the structure and electrochemical performance of the as-prepared Fe3O4–FeO–Fe@C composite. The electrode shows a stable and reversible capacity of over 600 mAh g−1 at a current of 53 mA g−1 for up to 60 cycles, which could be ascribed to the unique double-layer core–shell and embedded structures.

► An Fe3O4–FeO–Fe@C composite has been successfully synthesized.
► The Fe3O4–FeO–Fe@C composite has a unique double-layer core–shell structure and an embedded structure.
► Electrochemical performance of Fe3O4–FeO–Fe@C composite electrode has been investigated.