Preparation and performance of ZnSnO3/C composites as anode for lith-ium ion battery

Sn-based bimetallic oxides have received particular attention as potential anode materials for lithium-ion batteries due to their high theoretical specific capacity, moderate intercalation and delithiation potential, abundant reserves, low cost, high safety, and environmental protection. In this study, the carbon-coated ZnSnO3 composite (ZnSnO3/C) was pre-pared by a one-step in situ hydrothermal method. The presence of carbon material can inhibit the growth and agglomeration of ZnSnO3 nanoparticles during the synthesis process, improve the electrical conductivity of the ZnSnO3/C composite, and buffer the volume expansion of ZnSnO3. The prepared ZnSnO3/C composite electrode exhibited excellent lithium storage performance with an improved cycling performance and superior rate capability compared to the pure ZnSnO3 electrode. At a current density of 200 mA/g, ZnSnO3/C composite electrode had a remarkable reversible capacity of 1274.9 mA?h/g after 200 cycles at a current density of 200 mA/g, and still provided a discharge capacity retention of 663.2 mA?h/g even after 500 cycles at a high current density of 5000 mA/g. The superior lithium storage performance is attributed to the synergistic effect between the carbon coating on the surface and the ZnSnO3 nanoparticles