Three-dimensional porous Na4MnV(PO4)3 constructed by Aspergillus niger biological template as a high performance cathode for sodium ion batteries

The sodium super ion conductor (NASICON) structure materials have attracted extensive attention because of its open three-dimensional crystal network framework and fast sodium ion migration rate. However, the poor electronic conductivity due to the presence of phosphate groups and the consequent high cost have been a barrier to commercialization. In this work, Na 4 MnV(PO 4 ) 3 (NMVP) with three-dimensional porous structure is synthesized in situ using Aspergillus niger as a biological template (noted as NMVP/ANDC). The cell wall of Aspergillus niger is rich in hydroxyl groups , which can adsorb metal ions well, so that NMVP particles can be synthesized on Aspergillus niger without stacking and agglomeration. NMVP grows along Aspergillus niger mycelium has a spongy-like three-dimensional porous network structure, which helps the contact between active materials and electrolyte, reduces the migration distance of sodium ions, and improves the conductivity of active materials. Therefore, NMVP/ANDC has good rate performance and cycle stability. It can provide 109 mAh g −1 at 0.5 C and 79.6% capacity retention after 3000 cycles at 5 C. The biological template method is proposed in this paper opens up a simple way for the preparation of other three-dimensional porous network structural materials.