Hairy graphite of high electrochemical performances prepared through in-situ decoration of carbon nanotubes

•Hairy graphite is prepared by in-situ growth of carbon nanotubes on the graphite surface.•The hairy pattern of geometry improves the mechanics and conductivity of the electrode.•Superb rate performance and prolonged cycle life of the graphite anode are obtained.•Physical integrity explains the improved electrochemical performance of the electrode.

A hairy graphite is synthesized through a modified chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method, in which 2,3-dipicolinic acid and Ni(NO3)2 are employed as the carbon source and the catalyst precursor, respectively. Under Ar/H2 (95:5) reducing atmosphere at 900 °C, Ni(NO3)2 is reduced to nickel nanoparticles and 2,3-dipicolinic acid is pyrolyzed into carbon fragments. With the catalysis of nickel nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are in-situ grown on the graphite surface through realignment of the carbon fragments. The hairy pattern of geometry of the graphite@CNT composite not only improves the mechanics and conductivity of the electrode, but also has more room to accommodate the volume change of the graphite particle upon prolonged electrochemical cycles. A superb rate performance and prolonged cycle life are obtained. The simple and effective strategy for integration of graphite with in-situ grown CNTs is very useful for boosting its electrochemical properties.

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