Preparation and Electrochemical Properties of High Specific Surface Carbon Aerogel/SnO2 Anode Materials for Li-Ion Batteries

Abstract

Lithium-ion batteries have consistently been a focal point of research in the field of energy. Traditional graphite anodes no longer meet the increasing demands for energy density. SnO2, with its high theoretical capacity, environmental friendliness, and safety, has emerged as a promising anode material for the next generation. However, issues such as volumetric expansion and agglomeration during charge–discharge cycles hinder its practical application. Addressing these challenges, this paper combines the high capacity of SnO2 with conductive and highly porous carbon aerogels, comparing the performance differences between composite anodes prepared by vacuum impregnation and hydrothermal methods. The results show the following: (1) high specific surface area carbon aerogels are beneficial for enhancing performance; (2) vacuum impregnation yields relatively higher initial capacity and better cycle stability; and (3) hydrothermal synthesis results in a higher loading of SnO2.