The core-shell structure of bacteria based C@Sn/Carbon nanotubes exhibits super stable cycling performance for lithium-ion battery anodes

Tin-based materials are recognized as a promising anode for lithium-ion batteries due to their high theoretical capacity, abundant reserves in nature, and suitable low discharge potential. However, their practical application has been hindered by rapid capacity fading during cycling, which is primarily caused by pulverization during severe volume changes. To extend the lifespan of Tin-based anodes, it is essential to mitigate the significant volume alteration associated with the insertion and extraction of lithium ions. In this work, we engineer successfully a simple core-shell structure where Tin-based components are only encapsulated within bacterial cells and compounded with carbon nanofibers (Sn@C/CNT). The bacterial exterior carbon-shells preserve effectively the structural stability of the Sn nanoparticles, suppress their aggregation, and buffer their volume expansion. Additionally, the carbon nanofiber network on the surface, characterized by high electrical conductivity and excellent mechanical flexibility, securely anchor the core-shell structure. This design enhances significantly the electrical conductivity and structural integrity of the overall electrode. When utilized as an anode in lithium-ion batteries, Sn@C/CNT exhibits an outstanding cycling stability and excellent reversible capacity of 798.77 mA h g −1  at 10th cycle, and 736.31 mA h g −1 even after 150 cycles at a current density of 100 mA g −1 .