Three-phase Sn-based heterostructure nanoparticles anchored on N-doped graphene as a promising anode for lithium/sodium storage

Microstructure modulation by phase engineering induces electrode materials to exhibit excellent energy storage performance due to their adjustable surface/ interface and electronic characteristics. For tin dioxide (SnO2), effective strategies for adjusting their microstructure properties are still lacking. Herein, 2D flexible N-doped graphene (NG) is rationally integrated with SnO2/SnS/Sn heterostructure via hydrothermal and subsequent partial in-situ vulcanization, in which the SnO2/SnS/Sn nanoparticles are tightly anchored on NG network (SnO2/SnS/Sn@NG). The unique SnO2/SnS/Sn heterostructures with modulated electronic properties can induce accelerated charge transfer kinetics and enhanced ions diffusion/adsorption capacities. The hierarchical structure with a large surface area along with nanocomponents can offer better permeability, more available charge storage sites of active material, and a stable electrochemical framework. As expected, the SnO2/SnS/Sn@NG heterostructure as an anode for lithium-ion battery exhibits an excellent charge capacity of 748 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1, long-term cyclic stability of 507 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1 for 800 cycles, and high-rate capability with of 476 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1. Moreover, the anode for sodium-ion battery also shows excellent cyclic stability and rate capability.