Hollow core–shell ZnMn2O4 microspheres as a high-performance anode material for lithium-ion batteries

The hollow core–shell ZnMn2O4 microspheres are successfully prepared by a solvothermal carbon templating method and then a annealing process. The crystal phase and particle morphology of resultant ZnMn2O4 microspheres are characterized by XRD and TEM. The electrochemical properties of the ZnMn2O4 microspheres as an anode material are investigated for lithium ion batteries. The results show that the ZnMn2O4 microspheres exhibit a reversible capacity of 855.8 mA h g−1 at a current density of 200 mA g−1 after 50 cycles. Even at 1000 mA g−1, the reversible capacity of the ZnMn2O4 microspheres is still kept at 724.4 mA h g−1 after 60 cycles. The enhanced electrochemical performance suggests the promising potential of the hollow core–shell ZnMn2O4 microspheres in lithium-ion batteries.