Synthesis of intertwined Zn_0.5Mn_0.5Fe₂O₄@CNT composites as a superior anode material for Li-ion batteries

ÂAbstract: Nanocrystalline ZnFe2O4, Zn0.5Mn0.5Fe2O4, and Zn0.5Mn0.5Fe2O4@CNT composites have been successfully prepared by a facile and high-yield co-precipitation method. All the samples as the anode materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetry, and electrochemical measurements. It has been found that the appropriate Mn doping and CNTs intertwining actively affect the formation of uniform morphology and improve the cycling stability and rate capability. The Zn0.5Mn0.5Fe2O4@CNT composites exhibit excellent electrochemical performance as the anode material, with enhanced reversible capacity (1374.8 mAh g−1after 100 cycles at the current density of 100 mA g−1) and good rate capability (933.5 mAh g−1at 500 mA g−1, 809.9 mAh g−1at 1000 mA g−1, 634.2 mAh g−1at 1500 mA g−1). We also present the crystal structure and Li-ion insertion mechanism for the above materials. Graphical Abstract: Our work displays the Li storage matrix model of the ZMFO electrode which may offer a novel way for the investigation of the LIBs with excellent electrochemical performance and perfect structural stability[Figure not available: see fulltext.].