Molten synthesis of ZnO•Fe3O4 and Fe2O3 and its electrochemical performance

Fe2O3 and ZnO center dot Fe3O4 hybrids has been synthesised by molten salt method and tested as anode material for Li-ion batteries. The crystal structure and phase purity was evaluated by X-ray diffraction and the morphology of the final powders was examined by the Scanning electron microscopy. The Li-cycling properties of Fe2O3 and ZnO-Fe3O4 were studied by cyclic voltammery (58 mu V s(-1)) and galvanostatic discharge-charge cycling in the voltage range, 0.005- 3 V at a current of 60 mAg(-1). The Fe2O3 samples prepared at 280 degrees C and 900 degrees C showed stable reversible capacities of 600 and 620 mAhg(-1) at the end of 50 cycles respectively. On the other hand, ZnO center dot Fe3O4 hybrids showed improved and stable capacity of 820 mAh g(-1) at the end of the 50th cycle. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.