Mn3O4 hollow spheres for lithium-ion batteries with high rate and capacity

Abstract

This work focuses on development of Mn₃O₄ hollow spheres with high cycling capacity and high rate capability in lithium ion batteries. Hollow Mn₃O₄ spheres are synthesized by an aerosol based “droplet to particle” strategy. The synthesis process involves producing and heating aerosol precursor droplets in air flow at 600 °C to induce exothermic reactions and gas blowing to form the single phase hollow Mn₃O₄ spheres. The hollow Mn₃O₄ spheres, as an anode material, deliver a highly stable cycle performance with capacity retention of ∼980 mA h g⁻¹ for over 140 cycles at 200 mA g⁻¹ and an excellent rate capability by retaining 300 mA h g⁻¹ at high current density of 10 000 mA g⁻¹.