Cu-Doped α-Fe₂O₃ Microspheres as Anode Materials for Lithium-Ion Batteries

α-Fe2O3 and Cu-doped α-Fe2O3 microspheres were similarly synthesized by solvothermal method. These microspheres were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), and scanning electron microscope (SEM) technique. As anode materials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), Cu-doped α-Fe2O3 electrodes exhibit better electrochemical performance (higher specific capacities of 600 mAhg-1 and better cycling performance), compared with pure α-Fe2O3 electrode. Additionally, the effects of different Cu2+-doping contents and reaction times on the morphology and the electrochemical properties were also discussed. Cu-doped α-Fe2O3 proves to be a potential anode material for LIB applications.