Synthesis and characterization of CNT@SnO.sub.2 decorated graphene anodes for Li-ion batteries as free-standing and flexible

SnO.sub.2 anode material is considered to be a promising anode material for lithium-ion batteries owing to its high theoretical capacity. However, the application of SnO.sub.2 has been dramatically restricted because of pulverization led by the volume expansion during the charge/discharge process. To overcome these drawbacks, herein, SnO.sub.2 coated carbon nano tubes (CNT@SnO.sub.2) decorated graphene anode as free-standing and flexible was prepared and investigated for Li-ion anode application. The fine dispersion of SnO.sub.2 nanocrystals onto CNT surfaces and decoration of this structure between graphene layers not only suppresses the volume expansion but also effectively avoids aggregation of the SnO.sub.2, increases the specific surface area and active sites, and improves the electrical conductivity. The free-standing and flexible composite anode exhibit excellent reversible capacity, high Coulombic efficiency, and good capacity retention.