Mixed transition-metal oxides: Design, synthesis, and energy-related applications

Abstract

A promising family of mixed transition-metal oxides (MTMOs) (designated as AxB3-xO4; A, B=Co, Ni, Zn, Mn, Fe, etc.) with stoichiometric or even non-stoichiometric compositions, typically in a spinel structure, has recently attracted increasing research interest worldwide. Benefiting from their remarkable electrochemical properties, these MTMOs will play significant roles for low-cost and environmentally friendly energy storage/conversion technologies. In this Review, we summarize recent research advances in the rational design and efficient synthesis of MTMOs with controlled shapes, sizes, compositions, and micro-/nanostructures, along with their applications as electrode materials for lithium-ion batteries and electrochemical capacitors, and efficient electrocatalysts for the oxygen reduction reaction in metal-air batteries and fuel cells. Some future trends and prospects to further develop advanced MTMOs for next-generation electrochemical energy storage/conversion systems are also presented. Full of energy: Recent advances in the rational design and synthesis of mixed transition-metal oxides (MTMOs, designated as AxB3-xO4) with controllable compositions and structures and their applications in various electrochemical energy storage/conversion technologies are summarized and discussed (see picture). Future trends and prospects for their further development are also discussed. Copyright © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.