Sn@CNT and Sn@C@CNT nanostructures for superior reversible lithium ion storage

Abstract

In this study we demonstrate a facile templated chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method to produce CNT-encapsulated Sn nanoparticles with ∼100% particle encapsulation and high filling uniformity. The encapsulated Sn particles were formed either as Sn or Sn@carbon core−shell particles with good control of size and morphology. The complete and uniform encapsulation of small, electrochemically active Sn particles within a CNT matrix with large free volume accommodated the volume excursion problem in repetitive lithium insertion and extraction reactions very well, showing good resilience in maintaining electrical connective and mechanical integrity. Consequently the completely filled Sn@CNT nanocomposite showed excellent reversible lithium ion storage properties.