MnO@1-D carbon composites from the precursor C4H4MnO6 and their high-performance in lithium batteries

MnO@1-D carbon composites were synthesized simultaneously through a single heating procedure using C4H4MnO6 as the precursor for both the MnO and 1-D carbon. MnO nanoparticles are uniformly dispersed inside or adhered to the surface of the 1-D carbon nanotubes, and these carbon nanotubes overlap each other to form carbon scaffolds. As an anode for lithium-ion batteries, the MnO@1-D carbon composites deliver a reversible capacity of 1482 mA h g−1 at a current density of 200 mA g−1. When the current density rises to 1460 mA g−1, the capacity remains at 810 mA h g−1 even after 1000 cycles. Such a unique carbon structure can act as a scaffold for MnO, which not only improves the electronic conductivity, but also provides a support for loading MnO nanoparticles. This synchronous process may pave a way to obtain such uniform and stable electrode materials with enhanced performance, which may find use in other applications such as catalysis, water treatment and supercapacitors.