SnSb/Graphene Composite as Anode Materials for Lithium Ion Batteries

SnSb/graphene porous three dimensional (3-D) composite with dual buffering capability was prepared by an in situ chemical reduction of SnCl2, SbCl3, and graphene oxide prepared using a modified Hummers' method. Field emission scanning electron microscope and transmission electron microscope images shows that the SnSb nanoparticles were distributed homogenously across the surface of the graphene sheets, and some were also found trapped in the corrugated graphene structure. The electrochemical performances of the SnSb/graphene composite was investigated by cyclic voltammetry and galvanostatic charge/discharge testing. The SnSb/graphene composite delivered 688 mAh/g at the 2nd cycle (compared to a calculated theoretical value of 768 mAh/g) and shows good capacity retention of 420 mAh/g after 100 cycles. A reaction model to explain the dual buffering effects of SnSb/graphene composite as anode material for lithium insertion and extraction has been proposed.