Rational design of carbon-coated hollow MnO nanotubes for Li-ion batteries

We have developed hollow MnO/C composite by using impregnation method and followed by heat treatment. One dimensional hollow MnO nanotubes are dispersed inside the partially graphited carbon matrix. As an anode for Li-ion batteries, the well-designed hollow MnO/C composite deliver a reversible capacity of 680.7 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1 after 190 cycles. After 180 cycles at varied current densities from 0.2 to 2 A g−1, this anode still delivered a high discharge capacity of 476.9 mAh g−1 and nearly 100 % coulombic efficiency. We also have experimentally realized a maximal discharge specific energy of 425 Wh kg−1. The well-designed hollow hybrid structure assists in overcoming the issues associated with using manganese oxide in Li-ion batteries, such as poor electric conductivity, volumetric expansion and structural instability during the electrochemical process. Such hollow MnO/C composite could be used as a class of electrode materials for developing high performance Li-ion batteries.