Energy Storage: CFx Derived Carbon–FeF₂ Nanocomposites for Reversible Lithium Storage (Adv. Energy Mater. 3/2013)

An efficient approach for the synthesis of conductive carbon-metal fluoride nanocomposites is highly desirable due to their importance as electrode materials for advanced lithium batteries. On page 308, Maximilian Fichtner, M. Anji Reddy, and co-workers demonstrate a facile and efficient chemical method for a 1-step synthesis of C–FeF2 nanocomposites. The synthesis leads to electrochemically active nanocrystalline FeF2 particles which are clamped inside a well conducting carbon matrix. No solid or liquid by-products are produced and the nanocomposite shows superior reversible lithium storage.