SnO_2/corncob-derived activated carbon nanohybrid as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries

A facile synthesis of Sn O2/corncob-derived activated carbon（CAC） composite was proposed,and the CAC used here has high specific surface area（over 3000 m2/g） and ample oxygen-containing functional groups.The microstructures and morphology as well as electrochemical performance of the Sn O2/CAC composites were investigated by X-ray diffraction,scanning electron microscopy,transmission electron microscopy and relevant electrochemical characterization. The results show that the mass ratios of Sn O2 to CAC have a significant effect on the structures and properties of the composites. The sample with 34% Sn O2 delivered a capacity of 879.8 m Ah/g in the first reversible cycle and maintained at 634.0 m Ah/g（72.1% retention of the initial reversible capacity） after 100 cycles at a current density of 200 m A/g. After 60 cycles at different specific currents from 200 to 2000 m A/g,the reversible specific capacity was still maintained at 632.8 m Ah/g at a current density of 200 m A/g. These results indicate that SnO 2/CAC can be a desirable alternative anode material for lithium ion batteries.