Simple self-assembly of SnS2 entrapped graphene aerogel and its enhanced lithium storage performance.

In this work, SnS 2 nanoplates entrapped graphene aerogel has been successfully prepared by simple self-assembly of reduced graphene oxide obtained through mild chemical reduction. Structural and morphological investigations demonstrated that SnS 2 nanoplates are highly dispersed in the three dimensional (3D) porous graphene matrix. When served as anode material for lithium-ion batteries, the electrochemical properties of SnS 2 /graphene aerogel (SnS 2 /GA) were evaluated by galvanostatic discharge–charge tests, cyclic voltammetry and impedance spectroscopy measurement. Compared with pristine SnS 2 , the SnS 2 /GA nanocomposite achieved a much higher initial reversible capacity (1186 mAh g −1 ), superior cyclic stability (1004 mAh g −1 after 60 cycles, corresponding to 84.7% of the initial reversible capacity), as well as better rate capability (650 mAh g −1 at a current density of 1000 mA g −1 ). This significantly improved lithium storage performance can be attributed to the good integration of SnS 2 nanoplates with 3D porous graphene network, which can not only provide much more active sites and easy access for Li ions intercalation, but also prevent the aggregation of SnS 2 nanoplates and facilitate fast transportation of Li ions and surface electrons during the electrochemical process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]