Cross-linked porous α-Fe2O3 nanorods as high performance anode materials for lithium ion batteries

Abstract

Novel cross-linked porous α-Fe₂O₃ nanorods are synthesized via a facile hydrothermal-calcination method. For comparison, Fe₂O₃ nanoparticles are prepared. The as-prepared α-Fe₂O₃ nanorods are evaluated as anode materials for lithium ion batteries. Electrochemical measurements reveal that the cross-linked porous α-Fe₂O₃ nanorods display a high initial discharge capacity of 1285.2 mA h g⁻¹ at 0.2C and it still remains 740.2 mA h g⁻¹ after 300 cycles, which are much higher than those of the Fe₂O₃ nanoparticles. Moreover, the cross-linked porous electrode delivers excellent cycle stability at a high rate density (about 600 mA h g⁻¹ at 1C and 520 mA h g⁻¹ at 2C after 300 cycles). The improved electrochemical properties may be attributed to the regular 1D nanostructure, the cross-linked nanostructure and the abundant pores inlaid in the nanorods of the as-prepared α-Fe₂O₃.