Sn-Cu nanotubes enveloped in three-dimensional interconnected polyaniline hydrogel framework as binder-free anode for lithium-ion battery

The novel Sn-Cu nanotubes enveloped in three-dimensional (3D) hierarchical polyaniline (PANI) hydrogel (Sn-Cu/PANI) were successfully prepared as a high performance anode for lithium-ion battery. The binder-free electrode exhibits reversible capacity of 548 mA h g−1 after 500 cycles and admirable rate capacity even up to 5000 mA g−1. The exceptional electrochemical performance of Sn-Cu/PANI hydrogel could be attributed to the unique structure: (1) The inactive Cu matrix in binary Sn-Cu compounds and the tubular construction conduce to relieve the volume swing; The high porosity originated from galvanic replacement reaction accelerates ions transmission, which contributes to rapid charging and discharging. (2) The 3D porous PANI framework offers a continuous electron and lithium ions transport network among the whole electrode; the hierarchical PANI serves as mechanical support to accommodate the stress related to the large volume change of Sn-Cu nanotubes, thus reducing the risk of electrode pulverization.