Preparation of a Sb/Cu2Sb/C composite as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries

Sb/Cu2Sb/C composites are synthesized via a thermolysis approach with copper citrate and antimony acetate as precursors, respectively. The as-synthesized composites display an initial reversible capacity of 602 mA h g(-1) and maintain 461 mA h g(-1) after 60 cycles. The excellent electrochemical performance of the Sb/Cu2Sb/C composites can be ascribed to the presence of Sb/Cu2Sb and amorphous carbon layers. The amorphous carbon layers could prevent the damage of electrodes that resulted from large volume expansion. The Sb/Cu2Sb improves their electronic conductivity.