Rational synthesis of SnS2@C hollow microspheres with superior stability for lithium-ion batteries

Tin-based nanomaterials have been extensively explored as high-capacity anode materials for lithium ion batteries (LIBs). However, the large volume changes upon repeated cycling always cause the pulverization of the electrode materials. Herein, we report the fabrication of uniform SnS2@C hollow microspheres from hydrothermally prepared SnO2@C hollow microspheres by a solid-state sulfurization process. The as-prepared hollow SnS2@C microspheres with unique carbon shell, as electrodes in LIBs, exhibit high reversible capacity of 814 mA h g(-1) at a current density of 100 mA g(-1), good cycling performance (783 mA h g(-1) for 200 cycles maintained with an average degradation rate of 0.02% per cycle) and remarkable rate capability (reversible capabilities of 433 mA h g(-1) at 2 C). The hollow space could serve as extra space for volume expansion during the charge-discharge cycling, while the carbon shell can ensure the structural integrity of the microspheres. The preeminent electrochemical performances of the SnS2@C electrodes demonstrate their promising application as anode materials in the next-generation LIBs.