Synthesis of hierarchical spindle-like Mn2O3 for lithium ion batteries with enhanced lithium storage properties

Hierarchical spindle-like Mn2O3 has been synthesized through a facile hydrothermal procedure without any hard template followed by thermal annealing in air at 600 °C for 2 h. When served as anode material for lithium-ion batteries, the Mn2O3 anode could maintain a reversible capacity as high as 993.1 mAh g−1 at a current density of 400 mA g−1 after 180 cycles. Moreover, it also shows excellent long cyclability, maintaining a reversible capacity of 823.8 mAh g−1 at a high current density of 800 mA g−1 after 390 cycles. The superior electrochemical performances of the spindle-like Mn2O3 anode should be attributed to the unique nanostructure, wherein the nanoparticles can buffer large volume change during long-term cycling process and provide shorter diffusion pathways for lithium ions and electrons on electrode. In addition, the porous surface can enhance effective contact with electrolyte.