A Li-ion battery using LiMn2O4 cathode and MnOx/C anode

MnOx/C nanocomposite, in which MnOx nanocrystals (64 wt%, mainly MnO with Mn3O4 phase) 5–30 nm in size are formed in situ in the confined pores of a preformed mesoporous carbon, is prepared by a facile process. The morphology and structure of MnOx/C are characterized using N2 adsorption/desorption measurement, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). As an anode for Li-ion batteries (LIB), the MnOx/C delivers the theoretical capacity of MnOx (700–750 mAh g−1 at 100 mA g−1) with excellent rate capability. MnOx/C prelithiated is combined with a delithiated LiMn2O4 (LMO) cathode for a complete Li-ion battery cell in a charged state with a cathode limiting capacity. The LMO-MnOx/C cell exhibits reversible capacity of the LMO cathode, with the cycling stability and rate capability dependent upon those of the MnOx/C anode. An LMO-MnOx/C cell with anode loading in slight excess delivers reversible capacity of LMO without capacity fading for up to 245 cycles, and exhibits an appreciable rate capability at 2 C. The LMO-MnOx/C configuration can be developed as a reliable LIB, potentially offering low cost, high rate capability, safety, and reliability.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► A MnOx/C nanocomposite was prepared by a facile process as a high capacity anode. ► MnOx/C anode was combined with LiMn2O4 (LMO) cathode into a full cell LIB. ► The new LMO-MnOx/C battery operates at 3.3 V on average with a capacity of 105 mAh g−1. ► The LMO-MnOx/C battery delivered the reversible capacity of LMO for up to 245 cycles. ► The LMO-MnOx/C battery also exhibited an appreciable rate capability up to 2 C rate.