A layer-by-layer assembly route to [Mn1/3Co1/3Ni1/3]O2 hollow spheres with electrochemical activity

The monolayered nanosheets of layered [Mn1/3Co1/3Ni1/3]O2 are prepared by the exfoliation of protonated Li[Mn1/3Co1/3Ni1/3]O2 compound and applied as a precursor for synthesizing the hollow spheres of manganese cobalt nickel oxide. The hollow spheres of layered [Mn1/3Co1/3Ni1/3]O2 are synthesized via the layer-by-layer (LBL) coating of the nanosheets and polycations on the polystyrene (PS) beads and the following heat-treatment. According to powder X-ray diffraction and diffuse reflectance UV–vis spectroscopy, the layered crystal structure and optical property of [Mn1/3Co1/3Ni1/3]O2 nanosheets are well-maintained upon the coating on the PS beads. The high-resolution transmission electron microscopy clearly demonstrates the hollow sphere morphology of the obtained material. The electrode functionality of the [Mn1/3Co1/3Ni1/3]O2 hollow spheres is verified by cyclic voltammetry.

► The hollow spheres of layered [Mn1/3Co1/3Ni1/3]O2 are for the first time synthesized. ► A coating of [Mn1/3Co1/3Ni1/3]O2 nanosheets on template PS bead produces hollow spheres. ► The electrode activity of the obtained hollow spheres is verified.