Layer-by-layer assembly synthesis of ZnO/SnO2 composite nanowire arrays as high-performance anode for lithium-ion batteries

A layer-by-layer approach has been developed to synthesize ZnO/SnO2 composite nanowire arrays on copper substrate. ZnO nanowire arrays have been first prepared on copper substrate through seed-assisted method, and then, the surface of ZnO nanowires have been modified by the polyelectrolyte. After oxidation–reduction reaction, SnO2 layer has been deposited onto the surface of ZnO nanowires. The as-synthesized ZnO/SnO2 composite nanowire arrays have been applied as anode for lithium-ion batteries, which show high reversible capacity and good cycling stability compared to pure ZnO nanowire arrays and SnO2 nanoparticles. It is believed that the improved performance may be attributed to the high capacity of SnO2 and the good cycling stability of the array structure on current collector.

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► SnO2 nanoparticles was deposited on ZnO nanoarrays through layer-by-layer assembly.
► The composite nanowire arrays show improved performance as anode for Li-ion battery.
► Improved performance was attributed to the combining advantages of each ingredient.