New easy way preparation of core/shell structured SnO2@carbon spheres and application for lithium-ion batteries

► Core/shell structures composed of tin oxide nanoparticles confined in mesoporous hollow carbon spheres are reported. ► The materials have a uniform size distribution, good structural stability, and large surface area. ► Core/shell structure exhibits superior cycling performance comparing with hollow carbon spheres. ► When the SnO2/C ratio is 78.6/21.4 (w/w), the surface area of SnO2@MHCS is 183 m2 g−1. ► The specific capacity value is 450 mAh g−1 at 1/5 C after 50 cycles.