Morphology-controlled synthesis of SnO2/C hollow core–shell nanoparticle aggregates with improved lithium storage

An effective approach of template-free alcoholysis is employed to prepare hollow core–shell SnO2/C nanoparticle aggregates as anode materials for Li-ion batteries. Amorphous carbon can be loaded on the SnO2 nanoparticles uniformly in the solvothermal alcoholysis process, and the subsequent calcination results in the formation of hollow core–shell SnO2/C nanoparticle aggregates. They exhibit a stable reversible capacity of 640 mA h g−1 at a constant current density of 50 mA g−1, and the capacity retention is maintained over 90.9% after 100 cycles. The intrinsic hollow core–shell nature as well as high porosity of the unique nanostructures ensures the electrode has a high capacity and a good electronic conductivity. The hollow loose structure offers sufficient void space, which sufficiently alleviates the mechanical stress caused by volume change. Herein, the SnO2/C electrode presents excellent electrochemical performance. This method is simple, low cost, mass-productive, and can also be used to prepare other advanced functional materials.