Exploring High-Energy Li-I(r)on Batteries and Capacitors with Conversion-Type Fe3O4-rGO as the Negative Electrode

We report a microwave-assisted solvothermal process for the preparation of magnetite (Fe3O4, ca. 5nm)-anchored reduced graphene oxide (rGO). It has been examined as a prospective conversion-type negative electrode for multiple energy storage applications, such as Li-ion batteries (LIBs) and Li-ion capacitors (LICs). A LiFePO4/Fe3O4-rGO cell is constructed and capable of delivering an energy density of approximately 139Whkg(-1) with a notable cyclability (ca. 76%) after 500 cycles. Prior to the fabrication of a LIB, the Fe3O4-rGO is electrochemically pretreated to eliminate the irreversible capacity loss. In addition to the LIB, a high-energy LIC is also fabricated by using the pre-lithiated Fe3O4-rGO composite as the anode and commercial activated carbon as the cathode. This LIC registered a maximum energy density of approximately 114Whkg(-1) with good cyclability. For both the LIB and LIC, the mass loading between the electrodes was adjusted based on the performance with metallic Li. The improved electrochemical performance of Fe3O4-rGO over existing materials is a promising development in the quest for novel, fast, low cost, and efficient energy storage systems without compromising the eco-friendliness