Fe₂O₃-reduced graphene oxide composites synthesized via microwave-assisted method for sodium ion batteries

Abstract Fe₂O₃-reduced graphene oxide (RGO) composites were successfully fabricated via a facile microwave-assisted reduction of graphite oxide in Fe₂O₃ precursor solution using a microwave system, and investigated as anode material for sodium ion batteries (SIBs). Their morphologies, structures and electrochemical performance were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, respectively. The results show that the RGO addition can enhance the electrochemical performance of Fe₂O₃-RGO composites. Fe₂O₃-RGO composite with 30 wt.% RGO exhibits a maximum reversible capacity of 289 mA h g^-1 at a current density of 50 mA g^-1 after 50 cycles and excellent rate performance due to the synergistic effect between Fe₂O₃ and RGO. The high capacity, good rate capability and excellent cycle performance of Fe₂O₃-RGO composites enable them a potential electrode material for SIBs.