Large-scale synthesis and application of SnS2–graphene nanocomposites as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries with enhanced cyclic performance and reversible capacity

We report the synthesis of SnS2–graphene nanocomposites via an in situ chemical reaction between Sn4+ and thioacetamide on graphene with the assistance of sonication. Thioacetamide plays a key role in the reaction by controlling the reaction rate through slow hydrolyzation. The as-synthesized SnS2–graphene nanocomposites have been applied as anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, which show a higher initial Coulombic efficiency and larger reversible capacity, than both pure graphene and SnS2 nanoparticles. The layered and porous structures contribute to the enhanced electrochemical performance due to its ability to buffer the volume change, reduce pulverization, and enhance electronic conductivity during the alloying/dealloying process.