Simple Synthesis of 3D Ground-Moss-Shaped MnO@N-C Composite as Superior Anode Material for Lithium-Ion Batteries

A MnO@N-doped carbon (MnO@N-C) composite, with a three-dimensional (3D) ground-moss-like structure, was synthesized through hydrothermal treatment, polydopamine coating, and calcination, all without the use of surfactants. In lithium-ion batteries, the MnO@N-C sample, when used as an anode, achieved a performance of 563 mAh g−1 at 1.0 A g−1 across 300 cycles and boasted an initial Coulombic efficiency of 73.2%. In contrast, the MnO electrode had a discharge capacity of 258 mAh g−1 and an efficiency of 53.3% under the same conditions. The improved performance stems from the 3D carbon networks hosting MnO. These networks enhance MnO’s electron transfer ability and offer space to offset volume changes during the charge–discharge cycle.