One-pot Synthesis of Nano-NiFe2O4 Pinning on the Surface of the Graphite Composite as Superior Anodes for Li-ion Batteries

Nickel ferrite and related materials have recently received considerable attention as potential anode in lithium-ion batteries for their high theoretical specific capacities. To overcome low intrinsic electronic conductivity and large volume expansion during the Li insertion/extraction process, in this work, nano-NiFe2O4 pinning on the surface of the graphite composite was prepared by a hydrothermal method. As the superior anode material, the as-obtained nano-NiFe2O4/graphite composite demonstrates high capacity and excellent cycle stability. An initial specific discharge capacity of approximate 1478 mAh·g−1 and a reversible specific capacity of approximate 1109 mAh·g−1 after 50 cycles at a current density of 100 mA·g−1 are reached. When the charging current is increased to 1000 mA·g−1, it also delivers a charge capacity of 750 mAh·g−1. The excellent performances are attributed to the special structure of NiFe2O4 nanoparticles pinning on the surface of the graphite, especially the enhanced electronic conductivity and area specific capacitance during the cycling process.