Enhancement of cyclability using recombination reaction of Cu for Sn2Fe nanocomposite anode for lithium-ion batteries

A Sn2Fe/C nanocomposite containing Cu was evaluated as an anode material for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. The electrochemical reaction mechanism of this nanocomposite was examined by ex-situ X-ray diffraction and high resolution transmission electron microscopy. The Sn2Fe/C nanocomposite containing Cu showed dramatically improved cycling performance. The enhanced cyclability of the Sn2Fe/C nanocomposite containing Cu was attributed to both amorphization of the Sn2Fe phase and a recombination reaction between Sn and Cu during the charging step.