Graphene: a two-dimensional platform for lithium storage

Abstract

Lithium ion batteries (LIBs) have attracted great attention due to their high energy density, low maintenance requirements, and relatively low self-discharge. Since the electrode materials hold the key for the electrochemical performance of LIBs, the design and synthesis of unconventional electrode materials with high lithium-storage capacities are the current focus in LIB research. In the last few years, a great deal of effort has been directed toward graphene as the electrode material for LIBs owing to its high intrinsic surface area, high electrical conductivity, and good compatibility with other electrochemically active components. This review paper outlines the componential and structural design for graphene-based hybrids in LIBs with enhanced electrochemical performance. The typical fabrication methods and structure-property relationships of these hybrids are discussed.