SnCo nanowire array as negative electrode for lithium-ion batteries

Amorphous SnCo alloy nanowires (NWs) grown inside the channels of polycarbonate membranes by potentiostatic codeposition of the two metals (SnCo-PM) were tested vs. Li by repeated galvanostatic cycles in ethylene carbonate-dimethylcarbonate – LiPF6 for use as negative electrode in lithium ion batteries. These SnCo electrodes delivered an almost constant capacity value, near to the theoretical for an atomic ratio Li/Sn of 4.4 over more than 35 lithiation–delithiation cycles at 1 C. SEM images of fresh and cycled electrodes showed that nanowires remain partially intact after repeated lithiation–delithiation cycles; indeed, several wires expanded and became porous. Results of amorphous SnCo nanowires grown inside anodic alumina membranes (SnCo-AM) are also reported. The comparison of the two types of NW electrodes demonstrates that the morphology of the SnCo-PM is more suitable than that of the SnCo-AM for electrode stability over cycling. Optimization of NW technology should thus be a promising route to enhancing the mechanical strength and durability of tin-based electrodes.