3D plum candy-like NiCoMnO₄@graphene as anodes for high-performance lithium-ion batteries

3D plum candy-like NiCoMnO₄ microspheres have been prepared via ultrasonic spraying and subsequently wrapped by graphene through electrostatic self-assembly. The as-prepared NiCoMnO₄ powders show hollow structures and NiCoMnO₄@graphene exhibits excellent electrochemical performances in terms of rate performance and cycling stability, achieving a high reversible capacity of 844.6 mA h g^-1 at a current density of 2000 mA g^-1. After 50 cycles at 1000 mA g^-1, NiCoMnO₄@graphene delivers a reversible capacity of 1045.1 mA h g^-1 while the pristine NiCoMnO₄ only has a capacity of 143.4 mA h g^-1. The hierarchical porous structure helps to facilitate electron transfer and Li-ion kinetic diffusion by shortening the Li-ion diffusion length, accommodating the mechanical stress and volume change during the Li-ion insertion/extraction processes. Analysis from the electrochemical performances reveals that the enhanced performances could be also attributed to the reduced charge-transfer resistance and enhanced Li-ion diffusion kinetics because of the graphene-coating. Moreover, Schottky electric field, due to the difference in work function between graphene and NiCoMnO_4, might be favorable for the redox activity of the NiCoMnO₄. In light of the excellent electrochemical performance and simple preparation, we believe that 3D plum candy-like NiCoMnO₄@graphene composites are expected to be applied as a promising anode materials for high-performance lithium ion batteries.