2D SnO2 nanorod networks templated by garlic skins for lithium ion batteries

SnO2 nanorods with 2D network structure prepared via an effective method of using the skins of garlic bulbs as templates are examined as anode materials for Li-ion battery. The samples are composed of SnO2 nanorods with length of ca. 80 nm and possess high BET surface area of 163.25 m2 g−1. The synthesized SnO2 electrode shows a high specific capacity (ca. 620 mAh g−1), an excellent cycling stability and a good rate capability but low initial coulombic efficiency. The nanorods characteristics of SnO2 ensure the fast Li-ion diffusion in the electrode. The loose network structure provides the electrode with a sufficient void space, which sufficiently alleviates the mechanical stress caused by volume change, and thus avoids the electrode to pulverize in the charge–discharge process. Therefore, the obtained SnO2 electrode shows a good cyclic stability and a high rate performance.

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► 2D SnO2 nanorod network materials are synthesized by using garlic skins.
► The prepared SnO2 nanorods with length of ca. 80 nm possess high BET surface area of 163.25 m2 g−1.
► Stable discharge capacities of ca. 620 and 560 mAh g−1 are obtained at the current density of 100 and 500 mA g−1, respectively.