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, Na4MnV(PO4)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.