C@SnS2 core-shell 0D/2D nanocomposite with excellent electrochemical performance as lithium-ion battery anode

C@SnS2 core-shell 0D/2D nanocomposite was successfully prepared by a one-step hydrothermal method. The SnS2 nanosheets were heterogeneously nucleated and grown on the surface of carbon spheres. As an anode for lithium-ion batteries, the electrochemical performance of the C@SnS2 composite outperforms that of SnS2 nanoflowers. After 100 cycles, the reversible discharge specific capacity reaches an impressive value of 802 mAh g−1 at a current density of 100 mA g−1. Even after 600 cycles, the discharge specific capacity remains a value of 442 mAh g−1, under a high current density of 1 A g−1. This remarkable lithium-ion storage performance can be attributed to the unique core-shell nanostructure and the synergy between SnS2 nanosheets and carbon spheres. This study advances our understanding of the vital role of carbon in fabricating nano-heterojunction or composite electrodes and provides a feasible route to significantly improve the electrochemical properties of SnS2 and other metal sulfides.