High reversible capacity of SnO 2/graphene nanocomposite as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries

Abstract

A gas–liquid interfacial synthesis approach has been developed to prepare SnO 2/graphene nanocomposite. The as-prepared nanocomposite was characterized by X-ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller measurements. Field emission scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy observation revealed the homogeneous distribution of SnO 2 nanoparticles (2–6 nm in size) on graphene matrix. The electrochemical performances were evaluated by using coin-type cells versus metallic lithium. The SnO 2/graphene nanocomposite prepared by the gas–liquid interface reaction exhibits a high reversible specific capacity of 1304 mAh g −1 at a current density of 100 mA g −1 and excellent rate capability, even at a high current density of 1000 mA g −1, the reversible capacity was still as high as 748 mAh g −1. The electrochemical test results show that the SnO 2/graphene nanocomposite prepared by the gas–liquid interfacial synthesis approach is a promising anode material for lithium-ion batteries.