Fe3O4 quantum dots on 3D-framed graphene aerogel as an advanced anode material in lithium-ion batteries

Abstract

Three-dimensional fabricated Fe3O4 quantum dots/graphene aerogel materials (Fe3O4 QDs/GA) were obtained from a facile hydrothermal strategy, followed by a subsequently heat treatment process. The Fe3O4 QDs (2–5 nm) are anchored tightly and dispersed uniformly on the surface of three-dimensional GA. The as-prepared anode materials exhibit a high reversible capacity of 1078 mAh g−1 at a current density of 100 mA g−1 after 70 cycles in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) system. Moreover, the rate capacity still remains 536 mAh g−1 at 1000 mA g−1. The enhanced electrochemical performance is attributed to that the GA not only acts as a three-dimensional electronic conductive matrix for the fast transportation of Li+ and electrons, but also provides with double protection against the aggregation and pulverization of Fe3O4 QDs during cycling. Apparently, the synergistic effects of the three-dimensional GA and the quantum dots are fully utilized. Therefore, the Fe3O4 QDs/GA composites are promising materials as advanced anode materials for LIBs.