Nanostructured metal oxides for anodes of Li-ion rechargeable batteries

The aligned freestanding nanorods (NR) of Co₃O₄ and nanoporous hollow spheres (NHS) of SnO₂ and Mn₂O₃ were investigated as the anodes for Li-ion rechargeable batteries. The Co₃O₄ nanorods demonstrated 1433 mAh/g of reversible capacity initially and then decreased gradually. The NHS of SnO₂ and Mn₂O₃ delivered energy densities as 400 and 250 mAh/g, respectively, in multiple galvonastatic discharge–charge cycles. The morphologic changes of the nanostructure anodes were investigated. It was found that Co₃O₄ NR broke down during cycles, but SnO₂ NHS still maintained their structural integrity in multiple cycles resulting in sustainable high capacity. The nanostructured metal oxides exhibit great potential as the new anode materials for Li-ion rechargeable batteries with high energy density, low cost, and inherent safety.