Tin sulphide nanoflowers anchored on three-dimensional porous graphene networks as high-performance anode for sodium-ion batteries

Three dimensional porous Ni foam/graphene/SnS2 composite was constructed by combining dip-coating method followed by one-step controllable hydrothermal growth and mild reduction. Benefiting from the continuously porous structure of SnS2 nanoflower as well the introduction of 3D graphene networks, the as-constructed anode exhibits dramatically enhanced sodium storage performances with superior reversible capacity, high rate capability, and excellent cycling performance. [Display omitted] The SnS2 nanoflowers anchored on three dimensional porous graphene were easily constructed with nickel foam (NF) as supported backbone through the dip-coating method followed by one-step controllable hydrothermal growth and mild reduction. The interconnected SnS2 nanoflowers with cross-linking nanosheets and rich pores assembled to form one layer of continuous network structure, which tightly adhered on the surface of graphene. The porous graphene supported by NF built a conductively integral highway that is preferable for the charge transfer kinetics, while the hierarchical pores from the SnS2 nanoflowers and NF are particularly beneficial for mitigating the volume expansion and promoting electrolyte penetration. The as-constructed Ni foam/reduced graphene oxide/SnS2 (NF/RGO/SnS2) composite exhibited dramatically enhanced reversible capacity, remarkable rate capability, and long-term cycling stabilities without the use of any binders and conductive additives. Especially, NF/RGO/SnS2 composite remained the specific capacity as high as 561.9 mA h g−1 at the current densities of 1000 mA g−1 after continuous tests for 160 cycles, which is much higher than conventional SnS2/RGO composite. With the advantages of unique architecture and excellent sodium storage performances, the NF/RGO/SnS2 composite shows promising application potential in the sodium ion batteries.