High rate performance SnO2 based three-dimensional graphene composite electrode for lithium-ion battery applications

Abstract

In order to improve the rate performance and cycling stability at high current densities of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), a sample composite of SnO₂ and three-dimensional graphene (SnO₂/3DG) was fabricated using a hydrothermal method, with polystyrene balls (PS) as templates. The reversible capacity is 720.8 mA h g⁻¹ at a current density of 100 mA g⁻¹, after 100 cycles. The rate performance is also excellent, with a reversible capacity of about 800 mA h g⁻¹ at 1000 mA g⁻¹. The excellent electrochemical performance is attributed to its 3D structure, which possesses a large specific surface area and abundant reaction active positions, leading to fast kinetics and short pathways for both Li-ions and electrons.