Abstract Generation of multilayer graphene sheets in the presence of transition metals has been widely studied, but it is still challenging to convert directly the solid coal-based carbon source to graphene in bulk scale. This work describes a convenient approach to convert anthracite to multilayer graphene sheets directly in the presence of molten iron. By tuning the ratio of iron with anthracite in the starting reactant, the morphology and layer number of as-prepared multilayer graphene sheets can be controlled accordingly. The possible mechanism is outlined, implying that the molten iron serves as both catalyst and solvent during the conversion process. Furthermore, as anode for lithium ion batteries, the as-obtained multilayer graphene sheets show excellent electrochemical properties.

中文翻译：

---

在铁水存在下由无烟煤直接转化的多层石墨烯片及其作为锂离子电池负极的应用

摘要 在过渡金属存在下生成多层石墨烯片已得到广泛研究，但将固体煤基碳源直接批量转化为石墨烯仍然具有挑战性。这项工作描述了一种在铁水存在下直接将无烟煤转化为多层石墨烯片的便捷方法。通过调整起始反应物中铁与无烟煤的比例，可以相应地控制所制备的多层石墨烯片的形态和层数。概述了可能的机制，暗示铁水在转化过程中既充当催化剂又充当溶剂。此外，作为锂离子电池的负极，所获得的多层石墨烯片显示出优异的电化学性能。