ZIF-8-derived hybrid nanocomposite platform with magnetic hematite nanoparticles as enhanced anode materials for lithium storage†

Abstract

Herein, α-Fe₂O₃–ZnO/C (FZC) nanocomposite samples were synthesized via a chemical co-precipitation method, followed by a one-step heat-treatment at different temperatures to serve as anode materials. The advantages of FZC include a high specific surface area, a porous structure that facilitates rapid ion/electron transport, and additional active sites for lithium ions, leading to excellent electrical conductivity and superior electrochemical performance. The FZC4 material demonstrated a high charge/discharge capacity of 561.2/587.8 mA h g⁻¹ after 80 cycles at a current density of 0.1 A g⁻¹, with low impedance and a coulombic efficiency (CE) of 95.4%. The outstanding electrochemical performance of the FZC nanocomposites can be attributed to the synergistic effect between the hematite (α-Fe₂O₃) nanoparticles and ZIF-8-derived platform framework, which significantly enhanced the lithium storage capacity of the anode. Our work provides an additional contribution to the field of nanomaterial research, expanding the potential for developing efficient and sustainable energy storage solutions in the future.