Manganese sulfate-derived α/γ-MnS embedded in N-doped layered carbon for high-performance lithium-ion batteries

Manganese sulfide (MnS), as one of transition metal sulfides, can be used as an alternative anode electrode material in lithium-ion batteries on account of its high theoretical specific capacity (616 mAh g −1 ) and low redox potential (0.74 V). It is a challenge to use MnS as commercial electrode material owing to its huge volume variation and low electronic conductivity. Hence, we propose a novel strategy to optimize the application of MnS via one-step annealing process, which embeds MnS nanosheets into N-doped biomass carbon layers (α/γ-MnS@NC). This strategy utilizes the strong adsorption ability of Auricularia to capture the chemical reagent ingredients and uses Auricularia as carbon source to get biomass carbon layers. Various characterizations demonstrate that MnS combined with carbon skeleton through C–S–Mn bonds. The α/γ-MnS@NC displays excellent electrochemical performance: high reversible capacity of 1042 mAh g −1 , excellent rate capability (685 mAh g −1 at 2.0 A g −1 ), and stable cycle performance after 1000 cycles. The assembled α/γ-MnS@NC//LiFePO 4 and α/γ-MnS@NC//LiCoO 2 full cells deliver high energy density of 300.2 Wh kg −1 and 400.2 Wh kg −1 , respectively. • α/γ-MnS@N-doped carbon (α/γ-MnS@NC) is designed and prepared. • α/γ-MnS@NC possesses a high specific capacity (1042 mAh/g) and low redox potential (0.74 V). • α/γ-MnS@NC//LiFePO 4 and α/γ-MnS@NC//LiCoO 2 full cells show an energy density of 300.2 Wh/kg and 400.2 Wh/kg.