Elucidation of few layered graphene-complex metal oxide (A2Mo3O8, A = Co, Mn and Zn) composites as robust anode materials in Li ion batteries

A simple solid state 'graphenothermal' reduction reaction is used to obtain few layered graphene (FLG)-complex metal oxide (A(2)Mo(3)O(8), A = Co, Mn and Zn) composites. Carbons of the exfoliating GO are used as an aid to reduce metal precursors to A(2)Mo(3)O(8). As-synthesized composites are used as anode materials in Li ion batteries. In 0.005-3V potential window and at 60 mA/g current density, FLG-Co2Mo3O8, FLG-Mn2Mo3O8 and FLG-Zn2Mo3O8 composites exhibit high reversible capacities of 785, 495 and 630 mAh/g respectively, even at the end of 50th cycle. The composites show far better cycling performance and rate capability than Mo-metal cluster compound. Amongst the three composites, FLG-Co2Mo3O8 shows excellent capacity retention (similar to 87%) and Coulombic efficiency (similar to 98%). Cyclic voltammetry shows that: (i) redox couples of A(2)Mo(3)O(8) and (ii) electrochemical adsorption and desorption by FLG in the composites are responsible for Li storage and release. (C) 2015 Published by Elsevier Ltd.