Synthesis and characterization of Sn-Mo mixtures as negative electrode materials for Li-ion batteries

Sn-Mo powder mixtures were prepared by chemical precipitation, followed by annealing at 700 oC in hydrogen atmosphere. The microstructure, morphology, and electrochemical performance of the powders were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), inductively coupled plasma mass spectroscopy (ICP) and electrochemical methods. The Sn-Mo mixture exhibited an initial discharge capacity of 491 mAh g-1 with a better capacity retention displaying 277 mAh g-1 after 20 cycles. This is due to the smaller particle size and a uniform distribution of the tin particles in the molybdenum matrix that effectively minimizes the effect of the large volume changes and also maintains the mechanic stability and structural integrity of the electrodes during cycling. Therefore, the electrode of the Sn-Mo mixture prepared by chemical precipitation exhibited better cycle life.