Hydrothermal synthesis of a CuMn2O4/VS2 composite as an anode for high-performance lithium-ion batteries

Abstract

The development of high-capacity anode materials with stable long-term cycling performance remains a critical challenge for next-generation lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). In this work, a CuMn₂O₄/VS₂ heterostructure composite was successfully synthesized via a facile hydrothermal method to overcome the intrinsic limitations of pristine CuMn₂O₄, including poor electronic conductivity and severe volume expansion during cycling. The engineered heterostructure, consisting of CuMn₂O₄ spinel nanoparticles anchored on conductive VS₂ nanosheets, provides strong interfacial coupling that facilitates rapid electron transport, lower Li⁺ diffusion pathways, and enhanced structural stability. Comprehensive characterization using XRD, FTIR, Raman, XPS, BET, FESEM, and TEM confirms the formation of a well-integrated and porous architecture with high surface area. As a result, the composite electrode exhibits an initial discharge capacity of 752 mAh g⁻¹ and retains 485 mAh g⁻¹ after 500 cycles at 0.1 A g⁻¹ current density, corresponding to a capacity retention of 64.26%, significantly outperforming pristine CuMn₂O₄ (190 mAh g⁻¹). Additionally, the electrode demonstrates excellent rate capability and enhanced cycling stability, despite an initial irreversible capacity loss of 33.5%. The improved electrochemical performance is attributed to enhanced charge-transfer kinetics, improved electrical conductivity provided by VS₂, and efficient utilization of active sites due to the heterostructure design. These findings highlight the significance of rational heterostructure design in developing durable, high-performance anode materials for next-generation LIB applications.