3D multi-scale hierarchical nanoflower design of bionic rose: Mesoporous Ni-Mn-Co-O anode and its derivative LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 cathode boosting high-property Lithium-ion batteries

Constructing complex micro-nano morphologies via bionic technology is an effective strategy to enhance the electrochemical properties of electrode materials. Firstly, we present the bionic design, preparation processes, and electrochemical properties of 3D Ni-Mn-Co-O nanoflowers (NMCO-NF) as a conversion anode material for lithium-ion batteries. Furthermore, an integrated electrode is constructed using NMCO-NF supported by Ni foam (NMCO/Ni-NF). Benefited from the hierarchical structure design, the NMCO/Ni-NF can not only effectively alleviate the large volume changes during cycling but also provide three scale paths for lithium-ion (Li⁺) transmission, which makes it exhibit excellent electrochemical properties, that is, 1052 mAh g⁻¹ in an average charge capacity and 76.42 % in capacity retention ratio after 150 cycles at 1 A g⁻¹. Meanwhile, the 2D dynamic growth process of a simple rose structure on a current collector is simulated by a Python program, and the micro-nano structure evolution process of NMCO-NF in the hydrothermal reaction is visualized. Finally, mesoporous LiNi_1/3Co_1/3Mn_1/3O₂ nanoflowers (LNCMO-NF) are successfully synthesized by taking 3D NMCO-NF as a sacrificial template. The feasibility of constructing complex multi-scale structures in a ternary cathode system is verified by experimental means.