Novel hierarchical graphene/polypyrrole (GNS/PPy) nanosheet composites have been successfully fabricated for the first time based on an in situ chemical oxidation polymerization method. Sheet-like PPy with a thickness of 20–50 nm grown on the surface of the composites of the GNS/PPy polymerized at an early stage due to the dominated role of the sheet-like GNS and residue glucose in the synthesis process. Supercapacitors based on the hierarchical composite exhibit large electrochemical capacitance (318.6 F g⁻¹) at a scan rate of 2 mV s⁻¹ . They also show superior electrochemical rate capability and cyclic stability. The capacitance retained ∼95% (132.9 F g⁻¹) after 1000 cycles at a scan rate of 100 mV s⁻¹ . Accordingly, the hierarchical GNS/PPy nanosheet composites are potential electrode materials for electrochemical supercapacitors.

We developed a facile one-step hydrothermal procedure to prepare hybrid materials of SnO₂ nanorods on graphene sheets (GS). Composites with individual SnO₂ nanorods of 10–20 nm in diameter and 100–200 nm in length show a high reversible specific capacity and outstanding cycling stability (710 mAh g⁻¹) as anode materials for lithium ion batteries. Owing to the enhanced lithium storage properties, the SnO₂/GS hybrid could be a promising candidate material for a high-capacity, low cost and environmentally friendly anode for lithium ion batteries (LIBs). This one-step hydrothermal procedure provides a facile technique for the design and morphology control of nanocrystals on GS and will be a versatile route in producing metal oxide/GS composites.