Fabrication of Sn-Ni alloy film anode for Li-ion batteries by electrochemical deposition

Sn-Ni alloy films for Li-ion batteries were fabricated by electrochemical deposition with rough copper foils as current collectors. The influence of electrochemical-deposition temperature and heat treatment were also investigated. By galvanostatic cell cycling the film anodes can deliver a steady specific capacity. The morphological changes cause the differences in capacity retention. After farther heat treatment, the film anodes present a better cycle performance, with a specific capacity of 314 mA·h/g after 100 cycles. This high capacity retention can be due to its smooth, compact surface formed in the heat treatment process.