We have developed a new synthetic process for creating three-dimensional porous germanium materials (3D-pGe). This process begins with zeotype-borogermanate microcubes, which undergo thermal deformation, etching, and hydrogen reduction to produce 3D-pGe. Notably, the byproducts of this synthesis are easily removed with warm water, avoiding the need for harmful etchants like hydrofluoric acid. The 3D-pGe exhibits excellent electrochemical properties as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries, including a high capacity of 770 mA h g−1, cycling stability with over 83% capacity retention after 250 cycles at 1C, and excellent rate capability (32% for 10C with respect to C/5). The material also benefits from a pseudocapacitive contribution through surface-controlled reactions. This innovative approach offers a promising pathway for the large-scale production of 3D porous Ge anode materials, which are crucial for advanced energy storage applications. – Journal cover design by scapiens

https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2018/ta/c8ta04626c#!divAbstract