Optimized Sn/SnSb lithium storage materials

We report the synthesis of SnSb-based intermetallic with improved morphology. The electrochemical characterization shows that these materials have a good electrode behavior in a lithium cell. Capacities exceeding 800 mAh/g with a charge-discharge efficiency approaching 100%, have been obtained. In addition, the percent of the initial irreversible capacity is moderate. The capacity decreases upon cycling quite likely due to a still not optimized electrode structure. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.