A self-assembled 3D urchin-like Ti0.8Sn0.2O2-rGO hybrid nanostructure as an anode material for high-rate and long cycle life Li-ion batteries

The controllable synthesis of electrode materials with unique nanostructures, high specific surface areas, and excellent electrochemical performance is crucially demanded for lithium-ion power batteries. In this paper, a 3D urchin-like Ti0.8Sn0.2O2-rGO hybrid nanostructure was successfully fabricated by a one-step hydrothermal process based on the coordination principle and molecular self-assembly theory. This novel graphene-supported Ti0.8Sn0.2O2 solid solution material efficiently combined the mechanical stability of TiO2 and high capacity of SnO2, leading to excellent electrochemical activity and superior cycling stability. High specific capacities of about 430 mA h g(-1) at a current density of 0.5 A g(-1) and 400 mA h g(-1) after 500 cycles at 1 A g(-1) with an efficiency of nearly 100% were achieved. This strategy could be applied to develop novel structures as electrode materials with facile synthesis, low cost, and high performance.