Preparation of Sn-aminoclay (SnAC)-templated FeO nanoparticles as an anode material for lithium-ion batteries.

Sn-aminoclay (SnAC)-templated FeO nanocomposites (SnAC-FeO) were prepared through a facile approach. The morphology and macro-architecture of the fabricated SnAC-FeO nanocomposites were characterized by different techniques. A constructed meso/macro-porous structure arising from the homogeneous dispersion of FeO NPs on the SnAC surface owing to inherent NH functional groups provides new conductive channels for high-efficiency electron transport and ion diffusion. After annealing under argon (Ar) gas, most of SnAC layered structure can be converted to SnO; this carbonization allows for formation of a protective shell preventing direct interaction of the inner SnO and FeO NPs with the electrolyte. Additionally, the post-annealing formation of Fe-O-C and Sn-O-C bonds enhances the connection of FeO NPs and SnAC, resulting in improved electrical conductivity, specific capacities, capacity retention, and long-term stability of the nanocomposites. Resultantly, electrochemical measurement exhibits high initial discharge/charge capacities of 980 mA h g and 830 mA h g at 100 mA g in the first cycle and maintains 710 mA h g after 100 cycles, which corresponds to a capacity retention of ∼89%. The cycling performance at 100 mA g is remarkably improved when compared with control SnAC. These outstanding results represent a new direction for development of anode materials without any binder or additive.