Controllable one-step synthesis of magnetite/carbon nanotubes composite and its electrochemical properties

Magnetite nanocrystals are deposited on carbon nanotubes by a reflux method in diethylene glycol. The morphological characterization proves that magnetite nanocrystals are decorated on the external surfaces of carbon nanotubes. The crystal size of magnetite nanocrystals can be readily tuned by adjusting the content of sodium acetate, but the content of sodium acetate has little effect on the amount of magnetite. The magnetite/carbon nanotubes composites exhibit an initial capacity as high as 840 mAh g(-1) and an excellent cycling performance for lithium storage. The reversible capacity, as high as 390 mAh g(-1), can be maintained after 75 charge/discharge cycles. The research has potential implications for the application of magnetite/carbon nanotubes composites as anode materials of lithium ion batteries.