Synthesis and electrochemical properties of pure phase Zn2SnO4 and composite Zn2SnO4/C

Compound Zn2SnO4 was synthesized by a hydrothermal method in which SnCl4·5H2O, ZnCl2 and N2H4·H2O were used as reactants. Composite Zn2SnO4/C was then synthesized through a carbothermic reduction process using the as-prepared Zn2SnO4 and glucose as reactants. The structure, morphology and electrochemical properties of the as-prepared products were investigated by means of X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and electrochemical measurements. The first discharge capacity of pure Zn2SnO4 was about 1634 mAh g−1, with a capacity retain of 404.9 mAh g−1 in the 40th cycle at a constant current density of 60 mA g−1 in the voltage range of 0.05–3.0 V. Comparing to the pure Zn2SnO4, some improved electrochemical properties were obtained for composite Zn2SnO4/C. Its first discharge capacity was about 1436.8 mAh g−1, with a capacity retain of 563.5 mAh g−1 in the 40th cycle.

Research highlights▶ During the past few years, Zn2SnO4 has been successfully synthesized by various methods and showed good electrochemical properties. ▶ Nevertheless, the electrochemical features of Zn2SnO4/C composite have rarely reported. ▶ In this study, a hydrothermal method is used to prepare pure Zn2SnO4, and then the as-prepared Zn2SnO4 react with glucose to produce composite Zn2SnO4/C. ▶ The carbon in composite can dissociate the metallic Sn and Zn particles and improve conductivity. ▶ So the electrochemical properties of composite Zn2SnO4/C can be improved. ▶ Comparing to the pure Zn2SnO4, some improved electrochemical properties were obtained for composite Zn2SnO4/C. ▶ Its first discharge capacity was about 1436.8 mAh g−1, with a capacity retain of 563.5 mAh g−1 in the 40th cycle.