Multi-level graphene-protected anode active material particles for fast-charging lithium-ion batteries

A graphene-embraced particulate for use as a lithium-ion battery anode active material, wherein said particulate comprises a single or a plurality of graphene-encapsulated primary particles of an anode active material, comprising a primary particle of said anode active material and multiple sheets of a first graphene material overlapped together to embrace or encapsulate said primary particle, and wherein said single or a plurality of graphene-encapsulated primary particles, along with an optional conductive additive, are further embraced or encapsulated by multiple sheets of a second graphene material, wherein said first graphene material is the same as or different from said second graphene material, and wherein said first graphene and said second graphene material are each in an amount from 0.01% to 20% by weight and said optional conductive additive is in an amount from 0% to 50% by weight, all based on the total weight of said particulate, and wherein said a surface of the first graphene material or the second graphene material is in physical contact with or bonded to a chemical species forming a redox pair with lithium, selected from a sulfonate or sulfonyl-containing group, a phosphate, or a —NH2-containing group.