A simplified electrophoretic deposition route for sandwiched structure- based Mn3O4/G composite electrodes as high-capacity anodes for lithium-ion batteries

Based on characteristic multielectron conversion reactions, transition-metal oxides are regarded as po-tential anode candidates for the new generation of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) because they are endowed with high specific capacity. Nevertheless, the inferior electronic conductivity and larger volume change lead to fast capacity decay during cycling. Herein, we propose a novel electrophoretic deposition strategy to prepare binder-free Mn3O4/graphene hybrid electrodes and overcome these two obstacles simultaneously. In the rationally designed structure, Mn3O4 nanoparticles are well encapsulated in the conductive network constructed by interconnected graphene sheets. In the process of cycling, thanks to the excellent flexibility of graphene and the rich voids in this sandwiched structure, not only the structural integrity but also the unobstructed conductive network can be ensured. In addition, it is verified that electrode kinetics is a fast process for surface-controlled lithium storage. From this perspective, in addition to high reversible specific capacity (880 mAh g(-1) at 0.1 A g(-1)), the prepared Mn3O4/graphene hybrid electrode possesses outstanding rate capability (678 mAh g(-1) at 5 A g(-1)) and remarkable cycling stability (neglectable capacity decay after 500 cycles at 1 A g(-1)). (c) 2022 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Transition-metal oxides are considered as potential anode candidates for the new generation of lithium-ion batteries due to their high specific capacity. However, the poor electronic conductivity and large volume change result in fast capacity decay during cycling. A novel electrophoretic deposition strategy is proposed to prepare binder-free Mn3O4/graphene hybrid electrodes, which simultaneously overcome these obstacles. The hybrid electrode exhibits high reversible specific capacity, outstanding rate capability, and remarkable cycling stability.