Synthesis of hierarchical worm-like SnO2@C aggregates and their enhanced lithium storage properties

The present paper reports a synthetic strategy of hierarchical worm-like SnO2@C aggregates with enhanced electrochemical performances. Specifically, a glucose-assisted hydrothermal treatment of the intermediate Co-Sn alloy nanoparticles, which were formed by carbothermal reduction of mixed commercial SnO2 and Co3O4 nanoparticles. The SnO2@C sample exhibits enhanced cycling performance in comparison with raw commercial SnO2 nanoparticles and intermediate Co-Sn alloy nanoparticles when used as anode of lithium ion battery. A stable capacity of 533.6 mA h g-1 at 100 mA g-1 and 477.0 mA h g-1 at 400 mA g-1 remains after 60 cycles. When the current density increases to 1600 mA g-1, the SnO2@C sample still deliver a high capacity of 384.2 mA h g-1. The superior electrochemical performances could be attributed to the synergistic effect of unique worm-like aggregates structure and carbon surface-layer, which facilitate the electron transportation and buffer the large volume change.

Duke Scholars

Author Jie Liu Chemistry