Controlled synthesis of CoxMn3−xO4 nanoparticles with a tunable composition and size for high performance lithium-ion batteries

Abstract

We present a new and simple strategy to synthesize uniform Co_xMn_3−xO₄ nanoparticles with a tunable composition and size. A series of Co and Mn mixed-metal coordination polymer precursors with a precise metal ratio were firstly built solvothermally by merely adjusting the molar ratio of Co and Mn. After subsequent annealing treatment, a pure Co_xMn_3−xO₄ phase was obtained. The particle sizes of the Co_xMn_3−xO₄ products were easily fine-tuned by varying the decomposition temperature. Particularly, the electrochemical properties of the MnCo₂O₄ nanomaterials for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) were investigated as a case study. Our experimental results suggested that an optimum size guarantees maximum capacity maintenance.