Binder-free multilayered SnO2/graphene on Ni foam as a high-performance lithium ion batteries anode

The reasonable structure construction of electrode materials with superior performance is desired for the new generation lithium ion batteries (LIBs). Herein, binder-free multilayered SnO2/graphene (GN) on Ni foam was fabricated via a dip coating method. SnO2 nanoparticles and GN were alternatively coated on Ni foam to form a sandwich-like structure. The wrapping of GN can raise the conductivity and keep the structural integrality of the binder-free material, preventing structure collapse arised from the volume expansion of SnO2. Benefiting from the porous Ni foam framework and sandwich-like structure, the SnO2/GN composite exhibited good rate performance and excellent cycle stability. High capacities of 708 and 609 mAh g−1 were achieved at rates of 1 and 2 A g−1. Besides, the SnO2/GN electrode delivered a high capacity of 757 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at 1 A g−1.