Synthesis and characterization of Mn₂O₃ nanorods as anode materials for lithium ion batteries

MnOOH nanorods were synthesized by a simple precipitation method employing manganese sulfate and potassium permanganate as raw materials and CTAB as surfactant and used as a precursor to prepare Mn2O3 nanorods. Comprehensive study of the structure and performance of the Mn2O3 nanorods was carried out by various physical and chemical experiments, such as ultrasound microscopy and electrochemical tests. According to X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy observations, the Mn2O3 crystallizes very well and has a homogeneous rod morphology. The width and length of the nanorods were 200~300 nm and 2~4 μm, respectively. Further analysis of the electrode performance of the material revealed that it delivers a high second discharge capacity of 1005 mAh·g-1 at 0.1C when used as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries.