Macroporous Mn3O4 microspheres as a conversion-type anode material morphology for Li-ion batteries

Transition metal oxides can electrochemically react with Li+ to result in the formation of Li2O and metal nanoparticles, and thus are good candidates as high-capacity anode materials for Li-ion batteries (LIBs). Research on particle designs is required to overcome the large volume change that occurs during charging and discharging processes. Herein, we have assessed the applicability of the macroporous Mn3O4 microspheres as the anode material morphology for LIBs through a single-particle measurement technique and battery tests (using a conventional electrode mixed with conductive carbon and a binder). The intrinsic electrochemical performance of the macroporous Mn3O4 gradually degrades because of the particle fragmentation caused by the volume change. On a conventional electrode mixed with conductive carbon and a binder, the macroporous Mn3O4 microspheres can incorporate nearby carbon particles during the charging and discharging processes, and consequently, the electron conductive pathways are generated within the transformed aggregates, and they play a role in braking the capacity drop. The pores and microstructures within the particles serve as conductive pathways for Li+ and electrons, and they are a means for improving the electrochemical performance of the conversion reaction–based metal oxide anodes.