MnO nanoparticles anchored on graphene nanosheets via in situ carbothermal reduction as high-performance anode materials for lithium-ion batteries

A MnO nanoparticle/graphene composite was prepared via in situ carbothermal reduction of Mn3O4 on the surface of graphene nanosheets. The formed MnO nanoparticles with diameters ranging from 20 nm to 250 nm integrated tightly with the graphene nanosheets. As anode material for lithium-ion batteries, the nanocomposite showed a high specific capacity of approximately 700 mA h g−1 at 100 mA g−1, excellent cyclic stability, and good rate capability. During the charge-discharge process, graphene nanosheets served as a three-dimensional conductive network for MnO nanoparticles. Furthermore, the detachment and agglomeration of MnO nanoparticles were effectively prevented due to the tight combination of MnO nanoparticles and graphene.

► MnO/graphene composite was prepared via an in situ carbothermal reduction method.
► Graphene acted as a reducing agent during the reaction.
► The composite exhibited high performance as anode material for lithium-ion battery.