α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles anchored on graphene with 3D quasi-laminated architecture: in situ wet chemistry synthesis and enhanced electrochemical performance for lithium ion batteries

A novel α-Fe2O3/graphene composite is prepared by a simple in situ wet chemistry approach. The α-Fe2O3 particles with diameter around 130 nm are homogeneously anchored on graphene nanosheets to form a 3D quasi-laminated architecture. Such a well-organized flexible structure can offer sufficient void space to facilitate the electrolyte penetration, alleviate the effect of the volume change of α-Fe2O3 particles and avoid particle–particle aggregation during lithium insertion/desertion. In addition, graphene not only improves the electric conductivity of the composite electrode but also maintains the structural integrity of the composite electrode during long-term cycling. As anode material for Li-ion batteries, the α-Fe2O3/graphene composite electrode exhibits a stable capacity of 742 mAh g−1 up to 50 cycles. The synthesis technique is suitable for practical large-scale production of graphene-based metal oxide composites as advanced electrode materials for rechargeable Li-ion batteries.