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.