Layer by layer synthesis of Sn-Co-C microcomposites and their application in lithium ion batteries

Alloy anodes were studied for pursuing Sn-based microcomposite synthesis, assembly and performance for lithium ion batteries. The self-assembled Sn-Co-C composites with nano-scaled microstructures were prepared via solution method and carbothermal technology. The morphology and physical structure were investigated with scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The as-prepared materials were assembled to half cell coin for the purpose of discussing the galvanostatic cycling, cyclic voltammetry and rate-capability performance. Results reveal that nanoscaled CoSn₂ alloys covered with Sn and C layer by layer are wrapped by cross-linked porous carbon network to form spherical microstructure. This distinguishing feature of Sn-Co-C composites provides a possible solution to the problems of Sn particle aggregation and poor electron transport, and has strong effect on improving electrochemical performance.