Using a green and effective method based on the solid state reaction between FePO4 center dot 2H(2)O and KBH4, high pure Fe2P nanoparticles are successfully prepared. The mass ratio of FePO4 center dot 2H(2)O to KBH4 has a decisive influence on the composition of the products. Moreover, Fe2P nanoparticles exhibit considerably high discharge capacities and excellent rate capability as the anode materials for nickel-based rechargeable batteries. The reversible discharge capacities are 413 and 343 mAh g(-1) at currents of 100 and 500 mA g(-1), respectively. It is expected that Fe2P nanoparticles have potential applications in nickel-based rechargeable batteries. (C) 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.