A Novel Sugar-Assisted Solvothermal Method for FeF₂ Nanomaterial and Its Application in LIBs

Due to its quite high theoretical specific-energy density, FeF₂ nanomaterial is a good candidate for the cathode material of high-energy lithium-ion batteries. The preparation of FeF₂ nanomaterial is very important for its application. At present, the preparation process mostly involves high temperature and an inert atmosphere, which need special or expensive devices. It is very important to seek a low-temperature and mild method, without the need for high temperature and inert atmosphere, for the preparation and following application of FeF₂ nanomaterial. This article reports a novel sugar-assisted solvothermal method in which the FeF₃∙3H₂O precursor is reduced into FeF₂ nanomaterial by carbon derived from the dehydration and condensation of sugar. The obtained FeF₂ nanomaterials are irregular granules of about 30 nm, with inner pores inside each granule. Electrochemical tests show the FeF₂ nanomaterial's potential as a lithium-ion battery cathode material.