A study on graphene/tin oxide performance as negative electrode compound for lithium battery application

A novel negative (anode) material for lithium-ion batteries, tin oxide particles covered with graphene (SnO/graphene) prepared from graphite was fabricated by hydrothermal synthesis. The structure and morphology of the composite were characterized by Raman spectra, FTIR spectra, XRD, XPS and FESEM. It is observed that the G and 2D bands (1581 and 2831 cm⁻¹, respectively) have more intensity in graphene rather than graphite. EIS was carried out. It is observed that the lowest Warburg impedance coefficient, σ_w, is 24.39 Ω s^0.5 for Li/SnO–graphene (3:1) cell. The reversible specific capacity of Li/SnO–graphene (3:1) cell was about 0.950 Ah g⁻¹ after 100 cycles at current density current 10⁻² A g⁻¹. These results indicate that 3 SnO:1 graphene possesses superior cycle performance and high rate capability. The enhanced electrochemical performances can be ascribed to the characteristic structure of tin oxide with graphene shells, which buffer the volume change of the metallic tin and prevent the detachment and agglomeration of pulverized tin.