Synthesis of ZnNiSnO4 nanorods by a simple hydrothermal method as a new anode material for Li ion battery

ZnNiSnO4 nanorods (ZNTO) have been synthesized by a hydrothermal method to be used as an anode material for Li ion battery for the first time. As synthesized ZNTO nanorods are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray photo electron spectroscopy (XPS). It has been found that the nanostructured ZNTO possesses macro porous structure with nanorods having diameter of about 10 nm, providing volume buffer and short diffusion length for Li ion insertion. In situ impedance analysis was performed to understand the electrochemical behavior of ZNTO nanorods during discharge-charge mechanism. The ZNTO nanorods have delivered a reversible capacity of 583 mA h g−1 after 75 cycles at 100 mA h g−1. It also retains a high rate capacity of 442 mA h g−1 at 446 mA g−1 after cycling for 10 cycles each at high current densities of 1130, 1815, and 2530 mA g−1. Such promising performances by the ZNTO nanorods are achieved due to their macroporous nanostructural effect and the synergies produced by the multimetal oxide electrode. [Display omitted] •ZnNiSnO4 nanorods are synthesized for Li ion battery anode.•In situ EIS is performed to study the electrochemical behavior of ZNTO nanorods.•A reversible capacity of 583 mA h g−1 after 75 cycles at 100 mA h g−1was delivered.•ZNTO nanorods electrode showed high rate capability at high current densities.