Ultrafine SnO ₂ nanoparticle loading onto reduced graphene oxide as anodes for sodium-ion batteries with superior rate and cycling performances

A structured SnO2–reduced graphene oxide (RGO) nanocomposite has been synthesized with SnO2 nanoparticles (∼5 nm) anchored on a RGO framework. It has been successfully applied as an anode material in sodium-ion batteries. The electrode delivers a reversible Na-storage capacity of 330 mA h g−1 with an outstanding capacity retention of 81.3% over 150 cycles. Moreover, it possesses a relatively good rate capability, exhibiting a capacity retention of 25.8% at high rate (1000 mA h g−1). With its combined advantages of low cost and environmental benignity, the SnO2–RGO nanocomposite would be a promising anode for Na-ion batteries.