Fabrication of Ti³⁺ doped TiO₂ coated Mn₃O₄ nanorods with voids and channels for lithium storage

Lithium-ion batteries have gained great recognition in commercialization due to their high energy density. However, they are still suffered from the limitation of capacity fading and short lifetime. In this study, we report a rational synthesis of yolk-shell structure Ti³⁺ doped TiO₂ coated Mn₃O₄ nanorods with long-term cycles and an ever-increasing trend of specific capacities. The strong interaction between the Ti³⁺ doped TiO₂ shell and Mn₃O₄ nanorods not only can be adapted for large volume expansion during repeated lithiation and delithiation processes, but also produces a dramatic synergistic effect of improved reaction kinetics by providing more channels for lithium ions/electrons transportation and enhancing the stability and mechanical integrity of the solid electrolyte interphase film. The unique characteristics contribute to achieving a high reversible capacity, superior cyclic stability and competitive rate capability. After 400 cycles, the electrode possessed a superior reversible capacity of 1487.9 mAh g⁻¹ with a capacity retention of 81.67%. The unique electrode shows a bright prospects applied for lithium-ion batteries.