Graphene supported Sn–Sb@carbon core-shell particles as a superior anode for lithium ion batteries

This paper reports the preparation and Li-storage properties of graphene nanosheets(GNS), GNS supported Sn–Sb@carbon (50–150 nm) and Sn–Sb nanoparticles (5–10 nm). The best cycling performance and excellent high rate capabilities were observed for GNS-supported Sn–Sb@carbon core-shell particles, which exhibited initial capacities of 978, 850 and 668 mAh/g respectively at 0.1C, 2C and 5C (1C = 800 mA/g) with good cyclability. Besides the GNS support, the carbon skin around Sn–Sb particles is believed to be a key factor to improve electrochemical properties of Sn–Sb.