Electrochemical Activity of Dendrimer-Stabilized Tin Nanoparticles for Lithium Alloying Reactions

The synthesis and characterization of Sn nanoparticles in organic solvents using sixth-generation dendrimers modified on their periphery with hydrophobic groups as stabilizers are reported. Sn(2+):dendrimer ratios of 147 and 225 were employed for the synthesis, corresponding to formation of Sn147 and Sn225 dendrimer-stabilized nanoparticles (DSNs). Transmission electron microscopy analysis indicated the presence of ultrasmall Sn nanoparticles having an average size of 3.0-5.0 nm. X-ray absorption spectroscopy suggested the presence of Sn nanoparticles with only partially oxidized surfaces. Cyclic voltammetry studies of the Sn DSNs for Li alloying/dealloying reactions demonstrated good reversibility. Control experiments carried out in the absence of DSNs clearly indicated that these ultrasmall Sn DSNs react directly with Li to form SnLi alloys.