A simple synthesis of Li3Fe(MoO4)3@C composite anode materials with high initial Coulombic efficiency and high capacity stability for lithium ion batteries

[Display omitted] •Li3Fe(MoO4)3@C composite was obtained by solid state method combined with ball milling.•The initial Coulombic efficiency is as high as 82% for Li3Fe(MoO4)3@C composite electrode.•The de-lithiation capacity of the Li3Fe(MoO4)3@C composite electrode is 739 mAh g−1 at 1600 mA g−1. At present, it is still challenging to fabricate anode materials for lithium-ion batteries with excellent electrochemical performances by simple process on a large scale. In this paper, by using a conventional solid state reaction technique along with a mechanical ball milling method, an unique Li3Fe(MoO4)3@C composite was synthesized. The amorphous carbon introduction is helpful in mitigating the volume expansion and enhancing the structural stability and electrochemical performance of the composite materials. After 100 cycles at 200 mA g−1, the Li3Fe(MoO4)3@C composite electrode maintained a high reversible capacity of 739 mAh/g with an initial Coulombic efficiency of 82 %. In addition, the rate performances of the composite electrode is also remarkable, and the reversible capacity is up to 740 mAh/g at 1600 mA g−1. This work can provide inspiration for the preparation of molybdenum based transition metal oxide composites with high electrochemical performances for other alkali metal secondary batteries.