Submicron peanut-like MnCO3 as an anode material for lithium ion batteries

Abstract

Submicron peanut-like MnCO₃ is prepared by a facile homogeneous precipitation and delivers better electrochemical performance as an anode material for lithium ion battery. The physical characterization reveals that the peanut-like MnCO₃ is composed of irregular nanoparticles, which results in a large surface area. As a contrast, square MnCO₃ is obtained with structural directing agents. Submicron peanut-like MnCO₃ delivers a reversible specific capacity of 700 mA h g⁻¹ at 233 mA g⁻¹ (1C = 466 mA g⁻¹) after 140 cycles. The discharge capacities at 46, 93, 233, 466, 932, and 2330 mA g⁻¹ are 1047, 1038, 881, 843, 750 and 410 mA h g⁻¹, respectively, and a recovery capacity of 1100 mA h g⁻¹ after 60 cycles could still be obtained. It also displays a discharge capacity of 618 mA h g⁻¹ at high current density of 932 mA g⁻¹ after 80 cycles. The advanced performance can be attributed to the unique morphology, facile electron and Li⁺ transportation at the electrode/electrolyte interface and self-accommodation of the large volume change during discharge/charge.