Flexible electrode of NiTe ₂ /porous graphene film as binder-free anode for lithium-ion batteries

The NiTe 2 nanocrystals anchored on porous graphene films (NiTe 2 @PG) were fabricated through a sequential process involving vacuum filtration, annealing, and tellurization. Within this structure, the NiTe 2 nanocrystals formed via the confined growth of NiTe 2 nanoparticles. The morphology and structure of the NiTe 2 @PG composite was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD), while the interfacial interaction between NiTe 2 and graphene was investigated by Xray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Raman spectroscopy. When evaluated as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries, the NiTe 2 @PG electrode delivered an initial reversible capacity of 875.7 mAh g -1 at a current density of 100 mA g -1 . Furthermore, it exhibited outstanding long-term cyclability, retaining specific capacities of 243.5 and 135 mAh g -1 after 10000 cycles at high current densities of 2 and 5 A g -1 , respectively.This remarkable electrochemical performance was attributed to the unique architecture of NiTe 2 @PG and the robust covalent bonding at the graphene/NiTe 2 interface. The porous graphene scaffold serves not only as a conductive substrate for the growth of NiTe 2 nanocrystals but also facilitates electron transport. Concurrently, its porous network shortened the diffusion path for Li⁺ ions and enhanced electrolyte permeability. Moreover, the formation of C-Te-Ni covalent bonds between graphene and NiTe 2 played a crucial role in maintaining the structural integrity of the electrode during cycling.