Preparation of SnO2-graphite nanocomposite anodes by urea-mediated hydrolysis

PVP-protected SnO2 nanoparticles and SnO2-graphite nanocomposites were prepared by urea-mediated homogeneous hydrolysis of SnCl4. For unsupported SnO2 TEM examination showed particles in the range of 4-6 nm, and a narrow particle size distribution. The particles also dispersed very well on a graphite surface. The SnO2-graphite nanocomposites prepared as such combine the high specific capacity of Sn-based anodes and the cyclability of graphite, and are promising anode materials for Li ion battery applications. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.