Synthesis of ZnSnO3 mesocrystals from regular cube-like to sheet-like structures and their comparative electrochemical properties in Li-ion batteries

Abstract

ZnSnO₃, as an anode material for lithium ion batteries (LIBs), was investigated for the first time with structures ranging from unique ZnSnO₃ nanocubes (ZSCs) to ZnSnO₃ nanosheets (ZSSs). These structures were synthesized by a dual-hydrolysis-assisted liquid precipitation reaction and subsequent hydrothermal route. After calcination of the precursors, both formed two types of regular ZnSnO₃ mesocrystal. Both mesocrystals showed almost the same capacity at the initial cycle, which agreed with the theoretical value of 1320 mA h g⁻¹. However, they exhibited different cycle abilities and rate performances. The capacity of the ZSSs decayed slowly over the first 12 cycles and no obvious degradation was observed after then. However, the capacity of the ZSCs decayed more quickly. After 50 cycles, the capacity of the ZSSs had only decreased by 38.4%, in contrast to a decrease of 77.5% for the capacity of the ZSCs. The different performances of the same material can be related to the differences in phase and exposed facets.