Graphite/graphene oxide composite as high capacity and binder-free anode material for lithium ion batteries

A composite of graphite and graphene oxide is synthesized and used as a high capacity and binder-free anode material directly in lithium-ion batteries for the first time. The scanning and transmission electron microscope analyses of the composite show the graphite particles and conductive additive are homogeneously distributed on the graphene oxide surface. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy result indicates that the oxygen containing groups of graphene oxide have been partially reduced during the first discharge process. Electrochemical tests reveal that this composite has more than 690 mA h g(-1) reversible capacity at the rate of 0.5 C (1 C = 372 mA g(-1)), simultaneously with excellent cycle performance and rate capability. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.