Self-Adaptive ZnMn2O4/α-MnO2 nanocomposite as an anode material for High-Performance Lithium-Ion batteries

Abstract

The pursuit of scalable and efficient electrode materials is essential for advancing lithium-ion battery (LIB) technologies. Among the anode candidates, spinel-structured ZnMn2O4 (ZMO) is attractive due to its high theoretical capacity (∼1008 mAhg−1), environmental friendliness, and cost-effectiveness. However, large volume expansion during lithium insertion/extraction and poor electrical conductivity limit its long-term performance. Conventional ZMO nanostructure synthesis involves complex, multi-step processes requiring high-temperature calcination, making them time-consuming and unsuitable for large-scale production. To overcome these challenges, we developed a rapid, one-pot microwave-assisted hydrothermal synthesis technique to fabricate a ZnMn2O4/α-MnO2 (ZMO/α-MO) nanocomposite. This method reduces processing time and enables in-situ formation of a mixed morphology. The composite consists of nano-polyhedral ZnMn2O4 integrated with 1D α-MnO2 nanowires, which buffer volume changes and enhance structural stability during cycling. The synergistic architecture improves electron transport, reduces lithium-ion diffusion paths, and provides superior mechanical resilience. Electrochemical results showed that the ZMO/α-MO nanocomposite as an anode material in the Li half-cell delivered a high discharge capacity of 891.6 mAhg−1 at 100 mAg−1 after 100 cycles. The electrode exhibited stable cycling across varying current densities and self-adaptive capacity recovery at different rates. These performance enhancements are attributed to improved reaction kinetics enabled by its porous structure, high surface area, and controlled volume expansion of ZMO nanoparticles composited with α-MnO2 nanowires. This green, scalable, and time-saving synthesis strategy offers promising potential for next-generation high-performance LIBs.