Synthesis of SnO2 nanoparticles inside mesoporous carbon via a sonochemical method for highly reversible lithium batteries

A sonochemical method was introduced to synthesize SnO2 nanoparticles in the pores of mesoporous carbon without any other agents. The nitrogen adsorption measurement and transmission electron microscopy results revealed that the SnO2 nanoparticles with the average particle size of around 10 nm were homogeneous distribution in the matrix. The aggregation of SnO2 was hindered by the three-dimensioned porous frameworks, resulting in a relatively large surface area of 362 m2 g− 1, which is beneficial for lithium-ion storage in batteries. The resultant composites with 43% SnO2 exhibited a high reversible capacity of 200 mAh g− 1 even after 300 cycles, which is 186% higher than that of the initial mesoporous carbon matrix. This strategy is expected to incorporate other functional nanoparticles inside mesoporous carbon for many applications.

► SnO2 nanoparticles were incorporated in the mesoporous carbon.
► The composite was synthesized by a sonochemical method without adding any agents.
► Composite with relative large surface area was beneficial for lithium anodes.
► The aggregation and volume changes could be suppressed by the pore structure.
► This method could be extended for the preparation of other functional materials.