Surface nano-metal particles Ni-modified Mn3O4 enhance the initial coulombic efficiency of the anode in lithium-ion batteries

Transition metal oxides (TMOs) are promising high-capacity anodes for Li-ion batteries, but their low initial Coulombic efficiency (ICE) hinders practical application. Here, a Ni/Mn 3 O 4 composite was prepared via ball milling, where nano-Ni dispersion enhanced phase transition, increasing ICE from 39.7 % to 57.8 %. Nano-Ni reduced charge transfer resistance and enhanced pseudocapacitance contribution, improving kinetics. DFT calculations revealed Ni’s catalytic role in lowering the Li O bond-breaking energy barrier and suppressing irreversible phase transitions. TEM confirmed Ni-promoted Mn 3 O 4 phase transformation and accelerated early-stage reaction kinetics. This study provides a strategy for designing conversion-type anodes with high ICE and kinetics.