Synthesis of Ni(OH)^sub 2^/graphene composite with enhanced electrochemical property by stirring solvothermal method

Transition metal hydroxides are recently investigated due to its higher capacity than that of relative oxides for lithium storage in lithium ion batteries. Here, sheet-stacking Ni(OH)2/graphene compound is synthesized by a facile stirring solvothermal method. The as-prepared Ni(OH)2 in the compound is proved to be β-Ni(OH)2 and large BET specific surface area of 53.9 m2 g−1 is obtained with a total pore volume of 0.218 cm2 g−1. The graphene sheet in the sheet-stacking structure not only offers fast electronic transfer through carbon meshwork, but also serves as an efficient buffer to release the inner stress and stop the falling of the active material. Thus, high reversible discharge/charge capacity of 1132/1123 mAh g−1 can be obtained after 100 cycles at current density of 100 mA g−1. The rate capability is also improved. In addition, Ni(OH)2/graphene exhibits excellent cycle stability at high current density. Discharge/charge capacities of 702/691 and 592/587 mAh g−1 are obtained at 1.0 and 2.0 A g−1 after 200 cycles at room temperature. It distinctly reveals that such special sheet-stacking hydroxide/graphene compound obtained through stirring solvothermal reaction with enhanced cycle performance and rate capability will be a promising anode material for lithium ion battery.