Rice husk derived graphene and zinc oxide composite anode for high reversible capacity lithium-ion batteries

Due to the low toxicity, high theoretical capacity, abundant resources, low potential, of zinc oxide (ZnO), it is regarded as the next-generation lithium-ion battery anode material. However, because of the significant drawback in terms of volume expansion during the charge-discharge cycles, ZnO is easily pulverized and agglomerated. In this research work, we synthesize 0.5 g of rice husk-derived graphene (R_0.5) and 1.0 g of ZnO (Z_1.0) composite (R_0.5Z_1.0) to accommodate the volume expansion of ZnO during the charge-discharge process as a next-generation lithium-ion battery anode. Rice husk as a graphene source will support the future usage of bio-based materials for active material synthesis. The samples were characterized via SEM, XRD, and Fourier infrared spectroscopy, and with a discharge capacity of 895.2 mAhg⁻¹ at a current density of 200 mAg⁻¹ after 110 cycles, the composite material demonstrated remarkable Li storing characteristics and electrochemical performance as an anode for lithium-ion battery application.