Implanting ultrafine tin oxide nanocrystals on hollow and porous carbon nanorods towards superior lithium storage

Tin oxide, characterized by its exceptional theoretical capacity, emerges as a highly promising alternative anode in the pursuit of high-energy-density lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, inherent limitations in conductivity and structural integrity impede the fulfillment of its energy storage potential. Herein, sophisticated SnO 2 -carbon nanorods (SnO 2 /C NRs) derived from a tin-based metal-organic framework are developed for superior lithium storage. The ultrafine SnO 2 nanocrystals are embedded within a hollow and porous rod-like architecture, ensuring fast multidirectional charge transfer and well-accommodated volume variation during the lithiation/delithiation process. Moreover, the integration of the carbon matrix further promotes electron conduction and reinforces the structural integrity towards fast, efficient, and durable electrochemistry. As a result, the SnO 2 /C NRs electrodes demonstrate excellent long-term cyclability with a minimal capacity fading rate of 0.089 % per cycle over 500 cycles, and a commendable rate capability with a highly reversible capacity of 922.1 mAh g −1 at 3 C. This work establishes a unique and insightful paradigm for designing advanced electrode materials towards energy-dense next-generation LIBs.