Binder-free Ge nanoparticles-carbon hybrids for anode materials of advanced lithium batteries with high capacity and rate capability.

We present a facile synthetic route toward binder-free, highly-dispersed Ge nanoparticles in carbon matrices using one-step pyrolysis of self-assembled Ge-polymer hybrids. 3-Dimensionally arranged Ge-carbon exhibits remarkably enhanced cycling properties and rate capability compared with carbon sheathed Ge lacking organization.