Facile synthesis of 3D networks of C/SnOx/C hybrid nanofibers with enhanced lithium storage

•3D C/SnOx/C networks were prepared by a simple dip-coating process and subsequent CVD growth.•The product could work as a binder-free anode electrode.•The product has an excellent cyclic performance.

3D networks consisted of C/SnOx/C hybrid nanofibers were prepared by a simple dip-coating process and subsequent CVD growth. The as-prepared material, worked as a binder-free anode electrode, delivered a reversible capacity of 512 mA h g−1 after 200 cycles at a current density of 200 mA g−1. The improved electrochemical performance can be ascribed to the morphological stability and the low resistance of the nanofibers with the CVD carbon skin. Furthermore, the embedded and de-aggregated SnOx nanoparticles in the carbon matrix provide large numbers of reaction sites for lithium ions. The results imply that 3D C/SnOx/C network nanocomposites have potential application in high-performance lithium ion batteries.