Improved electrochemical performance of Sn-Ni nanorods array for Li-ion battery

Sn-Ni nanorods electrode supported by nanocones array was prepared via a facile two-step electrodeposition method. The morphology and phase structure were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction, respectively. Cyclic voltammogram and galvanostatic charge/discharge testing were carried out to evaluate the electrochemical performance. The specific nanorods array design functioned well in accommodating the volume expansion and strengthening the interfacial force between active materials and current collector. The Sn-Ni nanorods array electrode showed a high discharge capacity of ~500 mAh g ^-1 and excellent cycling stability. Furthermore, the nanopore evolution in Sn-Ni nanorod after cyclic lithiation/delithiation process was reported for the first time.