Boron oxide–tin oxide/graphene composite as anode materials for lithium ion batteries

Abstract B 2 O 3 –SnO 2 /graphene (B 2 O 3 –SnO 2 /G) composite is fabricated via a chemical heat solvent method and utilized as anode material for lithium ion batteries. The added B 2 O 3 dramatically improves the electrochemical performance of lithium ion batteries compared to the SnO 2 /G composite. The B 2 O 3 –SnO 2 /G composites as anode show an outstanding discharge capacity of 1404.9 mAh g −1 at 500 mA g −1 after 200 cycles and an excellent rate capacity, which apparently outperforms the previously reported SnO 2 -based anode material. These improved electrochemical performance characteristics are due to the B 2 O 3 played a buffering role, which are easily beneficial for accommodating the volume change during the lithium ions insertion/extraction processes. Furthermore, boron atoms can accept electrons for its electron-deficient nature and boron ions could release electrons, which lead to electrons' increased density and conductivity are increased. The results indicate that the B 2 O 3 –SnO 2 /G composite is a promising anode material for lithium ion batteries.