Flake-like carbon coated Mn2SnO4 nanoparticles as anode material for lithium-ion batteries

A flake-like carbon coated Mn2SnO4 nanomaterial was synthesized via a two-step carbonization method using Mn-based metal-organic frameworks (Mn-MOFs) as precursor. The composite demonstrates a two-dimensional (2D) micro/nano-scale combined configuration with Mn2SnO4 nanoparticles dispersed uniformly in flake-like porous carbon matrix. The unique 2D and porous morphology is favorable for lithium ions (Li-ions) storage due to higher surface for electrode/electrolyte interaction and reducing diffusion length of Li-ions. This material gives a high specific capacity of 986 mA h g(-1) with 90.1% capacity retention after 100 cycles at 100 mA g(-1) and a capacity of 428 mA h g(-1) even at a high current density of 2 A g(-1). Moreover, the performance of the carbon coated Mn2SnO4 was compared with carbon coated MnO/SnO2 which has the same element composition with Mn2SnO4. It is believed that the "synergistic effect" in Mn2SnO4 helps to improve the reversibility of the lithium storage reactions, resulting in both higher capacity and better stability of carbon coated Mn2SnO4.