Preferential c-Axis Orientation of Ultrathin SnS2 Nanoplates on Graphene as High-Performance Anode for Li-Ion Batteries

A SnS2/graphene (SnS2/G) hybrid was synthesized by a facile one-step solvothermal route using graphite oxide, sodium sulfide, and SnCl4 center dot 5H(2)O as the starting materials. The formation of SnS2 and the reduction of graphite oxide occur simultaneously. Ultrathin SnS2 nanoplates with a lateral size of 5-10 nm are anchored on graphene nanosheets with a preferential (001) orientation, forming a unique plate-on-sheet structure. The electrochemical tests showed that the nanohybrid exhibits a remarkably enhanced cycling stability and rate capability compared with bare SnS2. The excellent electrochemical properties of SnS2/G could be ascribed to the in situ introduced graphene matrix which offers two-dimensional conductive networks, disperses and immobilizes SnS2 nanoplates, buffers the volume changes during cycling, and directs the growth of SnS2 nanoplates with a favorable orientation.