SnO2-Fe2O3 embedded in graphene nanosheets enhances conductivity and stable structure as a high-performance anode material for lithium-ion batteries

SnO2/Fe2O3/graphene nanocomposites were prepared by ball milling in planetary ball mill. SnO2/Fe2O3 nanoparticles are homogeneously fixed in graphite dilute nanosheets. It is worth noting that Fe2O3 nanoparticles can inhibit the agglomeration of SnO2 and it can also shorten the propagation path of Li+ and electrons. The nanostructure of graphene has excellent electrical conductivity and mechanical properties, which can simultaneously buffer the SnO2 volume change, inhibit the pulverization of the Fe2O3, and enhance the electrical contact of the electrode. Consequently, SnO2/Fe2O3/graphene nanocomposite material after 100 cycles displayed an excellent reversible capacity of 1280.2 mA/g at 0.2 A/g, with an outstanding rate capacity of 669.5 mA/g even at 1.0 A/g. After 450 cycles, the nanocomposite material achieved outstanding long-term cycling stability of 1694.9 mAg(-1) at 1.0 Ag-1.