Indium Phosphide/Reduced Graphene Oxide Composites as High-Performance Anodes in Lithium-Ion Batteries

Indium phosphide/reduced graphene oxide (InP/rGO) composites were synthesized successfully through a facile one-step route at 180 degrees C. The InP nanoparticles can be anchored uniformly on the surface of rGO nanosheets, forming a stable composite. Moreover, the size and dispersibility of InP nanoparticles can be greatly affected by the added rGO amount. The as-prepared InP/rGO composites show better electrochemical performance than single-component rGO nanosheets or InP nanoparticles. But, when the amount of rGO added is 5 mg, the electrochemical performance of InP/rGO composite is optimum. It delivers an initial discharge capacity of 1872 mAh g(-1) and the reversible specific discharge capacity can remain at 689 mAh g(-1) after 100 cycles at a current density of 100 mA g(-1). Even at a current density of 500 mA g(-1), the reversible specific capacity could still reach 500 mAh g(-1). The enhanced electrochemical performances of as-prepared composites might be attributed to the strong interaction between InP nanoparticles and rGO nanosheets.