Synthesis of hierarchically porous MnO/C composites via a sol–gel process followed by two-step combustion for lithium-ion batteries
Abstract
Hierarchically porous MnO/C composites with interconnected macropores and co-continuous skeletons were fabricated via a sol–gel process combined with phase separation, followed by a two-step combustion. The MnO nanoparticles were assembled into the carbonaceous skeletons to construct hierarchically porous MnO/C composites. The resultant MnO/C composites used as the active material in a lithium-ion battery display outstanding specific capacities of 1107 mA h g−1 after 300 cycles at 200 mA g−1 and great rate capabilities of 610 mA h g−1 at 2 A g−1. Besides, the specific capacity could retain a value of 480 mA h g−1 at 1 A g−1 after 1000 cycles. The superior electrochemical Li-storage property with a high specific capacity, great cycling durability and excellent rate performance was rationally associated with the intrinsic structural advantages and component effects due to the hierarchical porous structures. The MnO/C composites fabricated via a facile sol–gel synthesis followed by a two-step combustion demonstrate their potential of being applied to well-performing Li-ion batteries.