Three-dimensional mesoporous Sn–Ni@C network derived from cyanogel coordination polymers: towards high-performance anodes for lithium storage

Abstract

We propose a facile, scalable, yet versatile methodology for the formation of three-dimensional mesoporous (3DMP) tin-based alloy anodes for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), using cyanogel coordination polymers as precursors for the first time. The synthesis of a 3DMP Sn–Ni alloy network with a high surface area and uniform mesopores has been demonstrated as an example using SnCl₄/K₂Ni(CN)₄ cyanogel as the precursor. After surface carbon coating, the 3DMP Sn–Ni@C network exhibited enhanced lithium storage capabilities by virtue of its unique structural characteristics, such as its excellent structural stability, high charge transport capability, and improved reaction kinetics of lithium insertion/extraction. The proposed synthetic strategy could open up new opportunities for constructing advanced tin-based alloy anodes for LIBs.