One-step microwave-assisted synthesis of Sb₂O₃/reduced graphene oxide composites as advanced anode materials for sodium-ion batteries

Sb₂O₃/reduced graphene oxide (RGO) composites were prepared through a facile microwave-assisted reduction of graphite oxide in SbCl₃ precursor solution, and investigated as anode material for sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). The experimental results show that a maximum specific capacity of 503 mA h g⁻¹ is achieved after 50 galvanostatic charge/discharge cycles at a current density of 100 mA g⁻¹ by optimizing the RGO content in the composites and an excellent rate performance is also obtained due to the synergistic effect between Sb₂O₃ and RGO. The high capacity, superior rate capability and excellent cycling performance of Sb₂O₃/RGO composites demonstrate their excellent sodium-ion storage ability and show their great potential as electrode materials for SIBs.