Direct assembly of tin–MWCNT 3D-networked anode for rechargeable lithium ion batteries

Nanocomposites of Sn nanoparticle–multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were prepared by simple two-step electrochemical processes. First, acid-functionalized MWCNTs were electrophoretically deposited on a stainless steel substrate. Sn nanoparticles decorated on the MWCNTs were prepared by the electrodeposition of a SnCl4 aqueous solution on the pre-deposited MWCNT-film layer. The structure of the newly fabricated Sn-MWCNT composite was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The electrochemical performance of the composite was evaluated by cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic cycling. The as-deposited composite film shows the size of the uniformly dispersed Sn particles, ranging from few to several tens of nanometres, as a function of the deposition time. The composite shows electrochemical performance that is superior to that of a pure Sn nanoparticle anode.