ZnO-SnO2/graphene composites as high capacity anode materials for lithium ion batteries

A simple hydrothermal method has been developed to synthesize zinc oxide (ZnO)-tin oxide (SnO2)/graphene composites as anode materials for lithium ion batteries. The ZnO-SnO2/graphene composite exhibits outstanding electrochemical performance such as high reversible capacities and good cycling stability. The composite delivers a high initial discharge specific capacity of 1287.6 mA h g−1 with a reversible specific capacity of 1209.4 mA h g−1 at the current density of 1 A g−1. The charge capacity can remain about 1075.3 mA h g−1 after 10 cycles. And even after 50 cycles, the charge capacity still remains at 800.9 mA h g−1. Every component of the composite may make a contribution to the enhanced lithium storage capacity and cycling stability.