Nanosized Sn–Cu–B alloy anode prepared by chemical reduction for secondary lithium batteries

Abstract Nanosized Sn–Cu–B alloy powder is synthesized by chemical reduction to be used as an alternative anode material for secondary lithium batteries. The alloy powder consists of two phases, i.e. mainly η′-Cu 6 Sn 5 and a small amount of e-Cu 3 Sn. The reaction of Cu 6 Sn 5 with lithium proceeds in two steps. Lithium is inserted into the Cu 6 Sn 5 lattice first as Li x Cu 6 Sn 5 , which is isostructural with Li 2 CuSn, followed by alloying with tin, reversibly even after long cycling. The cycle performance of the nanosized Cu 6 Sn 5 electrode is significantly enhanced in comparison with that of the same material prepared by sintering or mechanical alloying.