MnOx/SWCHT macro-films as flexible binder-free anodes for high-performance Li-ion batteries

We present a low-temperature synthetic route toward the binder-free MnO (the mixture of Mn3O4 and MnO2)/single-walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT) macro-films, which could be employed as the single component of anodes in Li-ion batteries. Morphological characterizations reveal that the interconnected network of SWCNT macro-films in the free-standing MnOx/SWCNTs intrinsically possesses high electrical conductivity and exhibits good mechanical adhesion on Cu foils (current collectors). The MnOx nanoparticles directly grown onto the external surface of SWNT macro-films have very strong bonds with the nanotubes, avoiding agglomeration during their electrochemical operations. These MnOx/SWNT macro-films are evidenced to possess an excellent capacity of similar to 1000 mAh g(-1), showing promise as flexible anode materials for light weight and high performance Li-ion batteries. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.