Superstructured α-Fe2O3 nanorods as novel binder-free anodes for high-performing fiber-shaped Ni/Fe battery

Abstract Fiber-shaped energy storage devices are indispensable parts of wearable and portable electronics. Aqueous rechargeable Ni/Fe battery is a very appropriate energy storage device due to their good safety without organic electrolytes, high ionic conductivity, and low cost. Unfortunately, the low energy density, poor power density and cycling performance hinder its further practical applications. In this study, in order to obtain high performance negative iron-based material, we first synthesized α-iron oxide (α-Fe2O3) nanorods (NRs) with superstructures on the surface of highly conductive carbon nanotube fibers (CNTFs), then electrically conductive polypyrrole (PPy) was coated to enhance the electron, ion diffusion and cycle stability. The as-prepared α-Fe2O3@PPy NRs/CNTF electrode shows a high specific capacity of 0.62 Ah cm-3 at the current density of 1 A cm-3. Furthermore, the Ni/Fe battery that was assembled by the above negative electrode shows a maximum volumetric energy density of 15.47 mWh cm-3 with 228.2 mW cm-3 at a current density of 1 A cm-3. The cycling durability and mechanical flexibility of the Ni/Fe battery were tested, which show good prospect for practical application. In summary, these merits make it possible for our Ni/Fe battery to have practical applications in next generation flexible energy storage devices.