SnO2@rice husk cellulose composite as an anode for superior lithium ion batteries

Abstract

Tin oxide (SnO₂) has been considered as a promising anode candidate for lithium ion batteries (LIBs) due to its high theoretical capacity (782 mA h g⁻¹). However, the large volume change (>300%) and severe structural collapse during cycles are serious. Herein, we design and synthesize a composite composed of rice husk cellulose (RHC) encapsulated SnO₂. The ultrafine SnO₂ nanoparticles were embedded in carbon film via a facile hydrothermal approach. It is worthy of note that the proposed hydrothermal treatment plays an indispensable role in the formation of this SnO₂@RHC composite. As a promising anode for lithium ion batteries, the SnO₂@RHC composite exhibits a large initial discharge capacity (2090 mA h g⁻¹) and high capacities of 930 and 587 mA h g⁻¹ after 100 cycles, respectively, at 0.2C and even 1C. The outstanding performance may benefit from the well-designed versatile nanostructure and the synergistic effects between the SnO₂ and RHC.