In situ synthesis of cadmium germanates (Cd2Ge2O6)/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites as novel high capacity anode materials for advanced lithium-ion batteries

Well dispersed chestnut-like Cd2Ge2O6 (CGO) and Cd2Ge2O6/reduced graphene oxide (CGO/RGO) nanocomposites are successfully prepared via a facile one-pot hydrothermal method and characterized as novel lithium storage materials for the first time. Electrochemical characterization of lithiation/delithiation of the CGO/RGO nanocomposites reveals a large capacity of 943 mAh g(-1) for the first cycle and a capacity retention of 721 mAh g(-1) even after 100 cycles. The superior electrochemical performance of the CGO/RGO nanocomposites electrode compared to the pure CGO electrode can be attributed to the well dispersed RGO which enhances the electronic conductivity and accommodate the volume change during the lithium storage process. (c) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.