Nanocomposites of SnO2@ordered mesoporous carbon (OMC) as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries with improved electrochemical performance

Abstract

We developed a facile infiltration chemical route to fabricate nanocomposites with SnO₂ nanoparticle embedded ordered mesoporous carbon (SnO₂@OMC) as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries application. The content of SnO₂ in the composites can be optimized by changing the mass ratio of SnCl₂·2H₂O to OMC. The as-prepared materials were characterized by X-ray diffraction, N₂ adsorption–desorption analysis techniques, field emission scanning electron microscopy, and high resolution transmission electron microscopy. Electrochemical performance results reveal that the SnO₂@OMC composite containing 20 at% SnO₂ displays an extraordinary reversible capacity up to 769 mA h g⁻¹ and a high coulombic efficiency up to nearly 98.7% even after 60 cycles at a high current density of 100 mA g⁻¹. Meanwhile, SnO₂@OMC composite exhibits excellent rate capabilities. Even at a current rate as high as 1600 mA g⁻¹, it still maintains a stable charge–discharge capacity of 440 mA h g⁻¹ after 60 cycles. The outstanding electrochemical performance of the synthesized SnO₂@OMC composites could be ascribed to its unique structural characteristics. The SnO₂@OMC nanocomposites are promising candidates as anode materials for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.