Facile synthesis and electrochemical properties of alpha-phase ferric oxide hematite cocoons and rods as high-performance anodes for lithium-ion batteries

Unique cocoon- and rod-shaped alpha-phase ferric oxide, hematite (alpha-Fe2O3) is prepared by a simple, scalable and surfactant-free chimie douce synthesis. The structure and morphology is confirmed by x-ray diffraction, field-emission scanning electron microscopy and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. The electrochemical properties of alpha-Fe2O3 anodes are investigated using cyclic voltammetry, galvanostatic charge-discharge cycling and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The mesoporous alpha-Fe2O3 exhibited an initial discharge capacity > 1741 mAh/g with excellent cycling performance and rate capabilities. The solvent used for the preparation of alpha-Fe2O3 plays a key role in determining the morphology of the materials, which greatly influenced its electrochemical properties.