Clusters of ultra-fine tin dioxide nanoparticles anchored polypyrrole nanotubes as anode for high electrochemical capacity lithium ion batteries

Abstract Background Tin oxide (SnO2) has attracted numerous interests as anode for lithium ion batteries (LIBs) owing to its high theoretical specific capacity of 782 mAh/g. But the poor conductivity and rapid capacity fading during the electrochemical cycling due to the huge volume variation limit its practical application. Methods Ultra-fine SnO2 nanoparticles were anchored onto polypyrrole nanotubes (T-PPy) as clusters via a facile hydro-thermal reaction. Their ultra-fine size is beneficial to the volumetric change alleviation, while the clusters would increase the loading amount of the active materials and maintain a high specific surface area. Significant findings The hierarchically porous (T-PPy)@SnO2 hybrid were obtained with high SnO2 content around 70% and large specific surface area of 128.82 m2/g. They could deliver a high specific capacity of 605.0 mAh/g after 300 cycles at a current density of 1.0 C (782 mA/g), presenting an excellent cycling performance, and a discharge capacity of 422.2 mAh/g at 2.0 C, exhibiting a good rate capability.