Bi2Mn4O10: a new mullite-type anode material for lithium-ion batteries

The low specific capacity of graphite limits the further increase of the energy density of lithium-ion batteries and their widespread applications. Exploring new anode materials is the key issue. Herein, a new mullite-type compound Bi2Mn4O10 is designed and synthesized. The Bi2Mn4O10/C composite delivers a high reversible specific capacity of 846 mA h g−1 (more than twice that of graphite), and exhibits a high capacity retention of 100% after 300 cycles at 600 mA g−1, which is reported for the first time. The high specific capacity originates from the combination of the conversion reaction and alloying–dealloying reaction, which has been confirmed by the ex situ XRD, IR, SEM and TEM studies. In addition, the unique nanocomposite generated during the charge–discharge process provides excellent cycling stability. This work proves that Bi2Mn4O10/C is a potential anode material for advanced lithium-ion batteries.