Sn buffered by shape memory effect of NiTi alloys as high-performance anodes for lithium ion batteries

By applying the shape memory effect of the NiTi alloys to buffer the Sn anodes, we demonstrate a simple approach to overcome a long-standing challenge of Sn anode in the applications of Li-ion batteries – the capacity decay. By supporting the Sn anodes with NiTi shape memory alloys, the large volume change of Sn anodes due to lithiation and delithiation can be effectively accommodated, based on the stress-induced martensitic transformation and superelastic recovery of the NiTi matrix respectively, which leads to a decrease in the internal stress and closing of cracks in Sn anodes. Accordingly, stable cycleability (630 mA h g−1 after 100 cycles at 0.7C) and excellent high-rate capabilities (478 mA h g−1 at 6.7C) were attained with the NiTi/Sn/NiTi film electrode. These shape memory alloys can also combine with other high-capacity metallic anodes, such as Si, Sb, Al, and improve their cycle performance.