Boron oxide-tin oxide/graphene composite as anode materials for lithium ion batteries

- B2O3-SnO2/G anode material is prepared by chemical heat solvent method for LIBs.
- B2O3-SnO2/G shows much improved cycling performance and rate capability.
- B2O3 plays an important role in improving the performance.

B2O3-SnO2/graphene (B2O3-SnO2/G) composite is fabricated via a chemical heat solvent method and utilized as anode material for lithium ion batteries. The added B2O3 dramatically improves the electrochemical performance of lithium ion batteries compared to the SnO2/G composite. The B2O3-SnO2/G composites as anode show an outstanding discharge capacity of 1404.9 mAh g−1 at 500 mA g−1 after 200 cycles and an excellent rate capacity, which apparently outperforms the previously reported SnO2-based anode material. These improved electrochemical performance characteristics are due to the B2O3 played a buffering role, which are easily beneficial for accommodating the volume change during the lithium ions insertion/extraction processes. Furthermore, boron atoms can accept electrons for its electron-deficient nature and boron ions could release electrons, which lead to electrons' increased density and conductivity are increased. The results indicate that the B2O3-SnO2/G composite is a promising anode material for lithium ion batteries.