One-pot template-free fabrication of ZnMn2O4 hollow microspheres as high-performance lithium-ion battery anodes

Hollow ZnMn2O4 spheres with diameter distribution of 0.5–3 μm are prepared by a simple template-free hydrothermal reaction at 140 °C for 6 h. X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy are used to study the structure and morphology of the synthesized materials. The characterization results indicate that the formation of the hollow ZnMn2O4 microspheres goes through the formation of solid spheres and the transformation of the solid spheres to hollow ones. The electrochemical performance of the product as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries is investigated. It exhibits excellent cycling performance, delivering a reversible capacity of 737 mAh g−1 even after 100 cycles at 50 mA g−1. Surface morphology contrast of the ZnMn2O4 electrode before and after rate test indicates that the relatively stable structure of the hollow microspheres played an important role in keeping the lithium storage properties with high performance.