Facile synthesis of Sn–C nanocomposite as an anode material for lithium ion batteries

Sn–C nanocomposite is a promising anode material for high performance lithium-ion battery, but suffers from a complex synthesis procedure which hider its practical applicability. We report a simple and cheap synthesis method for Sn–C nanocomposites. By combining wet-chemical and carbonthermal reduction approaches, we are able to produce Sn–C nanocomposite in a simple one-pot synthesis during a successive heating procedure. Gel-derived nanocrystalline SnO2 is introduced into the precursor to act as a transition-phase for in situ growth of metallic tin nanocrystals. Consequently, this method allows for the fine control of the formation of the tin nanocrystals posterior to the carbonization of carbon sources through carbonthermal reduction of a nanosized SnO2. The resulting Sn–C nanocomposites deliver a remarkable lithium-ion insertion/extraction performance, such as high capacities of 588 and 367 mA h g−1 at 20 mA g−1 and 200 mA g−1, respectively.

► Sn–C nanocomposite was synthesized by combining chemical and carbonthermal reduction approach.
► Gel–derived nanocrystalline SnO2 enables fine control of in situ growth of tin nanocrystals.
► The Sn–C nanocomposite exhibits an excellent cyclability after 200 cycles.
► This method is simple and low-cost.