Nickel-Catalyzed Synthesis of 3D Edge-Curled Graphene for High-Performance Lithium-Ion Batteries

Effectively preventing graphene stacking and maintaining ultrathin layers remains a significant research effort for graphene preparation and applications. In this paper, a novel synthetic strategy based on catalyst migration on the surface of a salt template to control the growth of graphene is used to prepare 3D edge-curled graphene (3D ECG). Under the synergistic effect of the steric hindrance and the migration of the Ni catalyst, 3D ECG forms a special structure in which the intermediate portion is flat and the edge is curled. The resultant unique structure not only effectively prevents the close stacking and aggregation of graphene, but also significantly improves its lithium storage performance. As an anode for lithium ion batteries, the reversible specific capacity can reach 907.5 and 347.8 mAh g(-1) at the current density of 0.05 and 5.0 A g(-1). Even after 1000 cycles, the specific capacity of 3D ECG can still be maintained at 605.2 mAh g(-1) at a current density of 0.5 A g(-1), demonstrating excellent rate performance and cycle performance. This new synthesis strategy and unique edge-curled structure can be used to guide more design of 3D graphene materials for further functional applications.