In situ synthesis rodlike MnO 2 /reduced graphene oxide composite as anode materials for Li-ion batteries

As one of the most promising anode materials, MnO 2 has attracted much attention due to its much higher theoretical capacity. However, the low electrical conductivity and the large specific volume change limit its performance. Herein we synthesize rodlike MnO 2 /reduced graphene oxide (RGO) composite for Li-ion batteries by a simple in situ hydrothermal method. The graphene significantly improves the electrical conductivity and buffers the volume change. The composite shows a large reversible capacity and excellent cyclic stability. At the current density of 100 mA g −1 , the first discharge and charge capacities are 1469.6 and 879.4 mAh g −1 , respectively. After 55 cycles, the rodlike MnO 2 /RGO composite could deliver reversible capacity as high as 528.7 mAh g −1 at the current density of 100 mA g −1 , corresponding to the capacity fading of only 0.8%. The superior electrochemical performance is the joint result of the high capacity of MnO 2 and excellent electrical conductivity of RGO.