In situ growth of FeS microsheet networks with enhanced electrochemical performance for lithium-ion batteries

Abstract

A facile solution-based approach has been developed for the preparation of mackinawite FeS microsheet networks directly on Fe foil. It is found that sulfur sources significantly impact the uniformity and purity of the products, while ethylenediamine as a strong donor ligand plays an important role in the formation of FeS microsheet networks. For comparison, numerous FeS microspheres are obtained in the absence of ethylenediamine. The FeS microsheet networks deliver a promising Li storage capacity (772 mA h g⁻¹ at the 1st cycle and 697 mA h g⁻¹ at the 20th cycle), much higher than that of the FeS microspheres. The enhanced electrochemical performance of the FeS microsheet networks can be attributed to their layered structure and unique morphology, which possess a larger electrode–electrolyte contact area, shorter diffusion length of the ions and easier transportation of the electrons.