In Situ Synthesis of ZnMn2O4-ZnO-C and ZnMn2O4-C Nanohybrids as High Performance Lithium-Ion Battery Anodes.

ZnMn2O4-ZnO-C nanohybrids have been synthesized by means of a simple carbonthermal reduction reaction between ZnMnO3 and acetylene black. ZnMn2O4-C nanohybrids are obtained by further washing with NaOH solution. The reversible discharge capacity of the ZnMn2O4-ZnO-C nanohybrids can reach 620 mA h g-1 at a current density of 100 mA g-1 and 520 mA h g-1 at 800 mA g-1 after 100 cycles. More importantly, ZnMn2O4-C shows better conductivity along with better rate performance after the removal of ZnO. The as-prepared ZnMn2O4-C nanohybrids show a high specific capacity of approximately 750 mA h g-1 at a current density of 100 mA g-1 after 100 cycles and excellent rate performance. The reaction involved in the discharge/charge processes are discussed on the basis of ex situ high-resolution transmission of the electrode materials. The conclusions will be of benefit in the design and exploration of future binary transition-metal oxide anode materials for lithium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]