Synthesis of Co3O4@SnO2@C core-shell nanorods with superior reversible lithium-ion storage

This paper describes a facile hydrothermal and subsequent carbonization approach for the synthesis of Co3O4@SnO2@C core-shell nanorods. The as-synthesized Co3O4@SnO2@ C nanorods have been applied as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, which exhibit improved cyclic performance and enhanced power capability. Both Co3O4 and SnO2 are electrochemically active materials, and the hybridization of Co3O4 and SnO2 into an integrated core-shell nanorod structure makes them an elegant synergistic effect when participating in the lithium-ion charge-discharge process. In addition, the carbon matrix has good volume buffering effect and high electronic conductivity, which may be responsible for the improved electrochemical performance.