Recent Developments and Understanding of Novel Mixed Transition-Metal Oxides as Anodes in Lithium Ion Batteries

Mixed transition-metal oxides (MTMOs), including stannates, ferrites, cobaltates, and nickelates, have attracted increased attention in the application of high performance lithium-ion batteries. Compared with traditional metal oxides, MTMOs exhibit enormous potential as electrode materials in lithium-ion batteries originating from higher reversible capacity, better structural stability, and high electronic conductivity. Recent advancements in the rational design of novel MTMO micro/nanostructures for lithium-ion battery anodes are summarized and their energy storage mechanism is compared to transition-metal oxide anodes. In particular, the significant effects of the MTMO morphology, micro/nanostructure, and crystallinity on battery performance are highlighted. Furthermore, the future trends and prospects, as well as potential problems, are presented to further develop advanced MTMO anodes for more promising and large-scale commercial applications of lithium-ion batteries.