Binding Sn-based nanoparticles on graphene as the anode of rechargeable lithium-ion batteries

Abstract

A facile method has been developed to synthesize Sn-based nanoparticle-decorated graphene through simultaneous growth of SnO₂ nanoparticles and a carbonaceous polymer film on graphene oxide sheets followed by heat treatment at various temperatures (250, 550, 750, and 900 °C). Detailed characterization of the resulting composite material using transmission electron microscopy and field emission scanning electron microscopy suggests that Sn-based nanoparticles were reliably bound to the graphene surface through a carbon film. Cyclic voltammograms and galvanostatic technique were used to investigate electrochemical properties of the Sn-based composite material as the anode of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Samples obtained with 550 °C heat treatment, which contained mixed Sn-based components (Sn, SnO, SnO₂), exhibit the best electrochemical performance among the series of nanocomposites in terms of specific capacity and cycling stability.