Iron based dual-metal oxides on graphene for lithium-ion batteries anode: Effects of composition and morphology

Dual-transition-metal oxide (DTMO) nanostructures are emerging materials for lithium-ion battery (LIB) anodes with improved structural stability, electronic conductivity and electrochemical performance compared to their single-metal counterpart. Herein, composites of graphene with DTMOs (MFeO, M = Co, Mn, Zn) were controllably prepared by harnessing the synthesis atmospheres and the nanoscale diffusion couple. Their composition and morphology were characterized by TEM, EDS mappings, XRD and XPS. The NH3 treatment resulted in the formation of hollow DTMO nanoparticles on nitrogen-doped graphene, while H2 and Ar gave graphene-supported hollow and solid DTMO particles, respectively. Electrochemical tests were applied to compare the performance of these composites as LIB anodes. The superior anode performance DTMO electrodes was demonstrated to the corresponding iron oxide composite. CoFe2O/RGO composites exhibit excellent rate capability and high-rate cycling stability for lithium storage, due to its stable solid structure. However, the hollowing of DTMO particles cannot elevate the capacity and stability, due to the interfacial resistance and structural changes upon cycling. •Dual-metal oxide particles were homogeneously supported on graphene.•CoFe2O4 nanoparticles display superior electrochemical performance as LIB anodes.•Phase pure dual-metal oxide particles can be hollowed by applying Kirkendall effect.•Solid nanosized dual-metal oxides have superior capacity to the hollow spheres.