In-situ Stabilization of Tin Nanoparticles in Porous Carbon Matrix derived from Metal Organic Framework: High Capacity and High Rate Capability Anodes for Lithium-ion Batteries

Abstract

It is a formidable challenge to arrange tin nanoparticles in a porous matrix for the achievement of high specific capacity and current rate capability anode for lithium‐ion batteries. This article discusses a simple and novel synthesis of arranging tin nanoparticles with carbon in a porous configuration for application as anode in lithium‐ion batteries. Direct carbonization of synthesized three‐dimensional Sn‐based MOF: [K2Sn2(1,4‐bdc)3](H2O) (1) (bdc = benzenedicarboxylate) resulted in stabilization of tin nanoparticles in a porous carbon matrix (abbreviated as Sn@C). Sn@C exhibited remarkably high electrochemical lithium stability (tested over 100 charge and discharge cycles) and high specific capacities over a wide range of operating currents (0.2–5 Ag–1). The novel synthesis strategy to obtain Sn@C from a single precursor as discussed herein provides an optimal combination of particle size and dispersion for buffering severe volume changes due to Li‐Sn alloying reaction and provides fast pathways for lithium and electron transport.