Controllable construction of flower-like FeS/Fe₂O₃ composite for lithium storage

Transitions metal sulfides/oxides have been considered as promising anode candidates for next generation lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to high theoretical capacities. However, the large volume change during lithiation/delithiation process and poor electronic conductivity often result in a poor charging/discharging performance. Herein, we design a flower-like FeS/Fe₂O₃ composite via a simple “solvothermal-oxidation” method, in which the Fe₂O₃ is most distributed on the surface of the flower. The unique porous structure and synergistic effect between FeS and Fe₂O₃ not only accommodate the large volume expansion, but also facilitate Li ion and electron transport. The Fe₂O₃ shell effectively reduce the dissolution of Li₂S_x during discharge/charge process. When serving as the anode material in lithium ion battery, FeS/Fe₂O₃ exhibits superior specific capacity, rate capacity and cycling stability compared with pure FeS and Fe₂O₃.