CNTs–Cu composite layer enhanced Sn–Cu alloy as high performance anode materials for lithium-ion batteries

Abstract

A Sn–Cu–CNTs composite anode with a CNTs–Cu transition layer has been successfully synthesized via an electrodeposition method. Different temperatures have been employed to heat-treat Sn–Cu–CNTs composites. After heat-treating at 200 °C for 6 h, strong adherence is achieved between the Cu₆Sn₅–Cu₃Sn–CNTs active material and the current collector. Good cycling performance (513.3 mA h g⁻¹ after 100 cycles at 1 C) and superior rate capability (as high as 16 C) can be obtained due to the insertion of evenly distributed CNTs in the composite anode materials.