Nanorod-structured Fe3O4/Graphene Nanocomposite as High Performance Anode for Lithium-Ion Batteries

High capacity Fe 3 O 4 nanorod/graphene composites with good rate capability were prepared by a two-step synthesis process: FeOOH/graphene composites were first synthesized by uniformly dispersed, hydrothermal prepared FeOOH nanorods on functionalized graphene sheets, and then they were annealed in an argon atmosphere at 450 o C for 2 h to make Fe 3 O 4 /graphene composites. The graphene functions as a reducing reagent during the annealing process. Thus synthesized Fe 3 O 4 nanorods with small diameters ranging from 50 nm to 100 nm have an intimate electrical contact with graphene sheet and exhibit excellent electrochemical properties. The Fe 3 O 4 nanorod/graphene nanocomposite shows a superior high reversible specific capacity (1155 mAh g -1 ) and good rate capability, demonstrating it is a promising alternative electrode material for high-performance lithium-ion batteries.