Zn2SnO4/carbon nanotubes composite with enhanced electrochemical performance as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries

Zn2SnO4/carbon nanotubes (Zn2SnO4/CNT) composite has been prepared by a facile hydrothermal process. The CNTs intertwine with Zn2SnO4 nanoparticles to form a 3D network wiring. Some Zn2SnO4 nanoparticles are anchored on CNTs and the diameter of Zn2SnO4 nanoparticles is about 20 nm. As anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, Zn2SnO4/CNT composite shows high initial discharge/charge capacities of 1925.4/1064.9 mAh g−1 at the current density of 100 mA g−1. Compared with bare Zn2SnO4, the Zn2SnO4/CNT exhibits enhanced electrochemical performance, including higher capacities, better capacity retention and higher rate capability, due to the 3D network conductive channels.