Lithium storage in carbon-coated SnO2 by conversion reaction

► The SnO2 and carbon-coated SnO2 (SnO2/C) hollow microspheres are fabricated by hydrothermal reactions respectively. ► The SnO2/C shows higher reversible capacity and good cycling performance than that of pure SnO2. ► A further electrochemical conversion reaction of SnO2/C is proposed according to the experimental and theoretical evidences.