Synthesis and Characterization of Sn/SnO2/C Nano-Composite Structure: High-Performance Negative Electrode for Lithium-Ion Batteries

Abstract

Tin oxide (SnO2) and tin-based composites along with carbon have attracted significant interest as negative electrodes for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, tin-based composite electrodes have some critical drawbacks, such as high volume expansion, low capacity at high current density due to low ionic conductivity, and poor cycle stability. Moreover, complex preparation methods and high-cost carbon coating procedures are considered main challenges in the commercialization of tin-based electrodes for LIBs. In this study, we prepared a Sn/SnO2/C nano-composite structure by employing a low-cost hydrothermal method, where Sn nanoparticles were oxidized in glucose and carboxymethyl cellulose CMC was introduced into the solution. Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and transmission electron microscope revealed the irregular structure of Sn nanoparticles and SnO2 phases in the conductive carbon matrix. The as-prepared Sn/SnO2/C nano-composite showed high first-cycle reversible discharge capacity (2248 mAhg−1) at 100 mAg−1 with a first coulombic efficiency of 70%, and also displayed 474.64 mAhg−1 at the relatively high current density of about 500 mAg−1 after 100 cycles. A low-cost Sn/SnO2/C nano-composite with significant electrochemical performance could be the next generation of high-performance negative electrodes for LIBs.