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High-Resolution Nanoanalytical Insights into Particle Formation in SnO
Jasmin-Clara Bürger1, Serin Lee2, Jan Büttner3,4,5
1Laboratory for Nanotechnology, Department of Microsystems Engineering (IMTEK), University of Freiburg, Georges-Köhler-Allee 103, 79110 Freiburg, Germany.
ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces
|June 3, 2023
Summary
Tin oxide/zinc oxide core/shell nanowires offer higher initial capacity for lithium-ion batteries. However, structural changes and metallic tin formation limit their long-term stability as anode materials.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrochemistry
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Tin oxide (SnO2) and zinc oxide (ZnO) are conversion materials with potential for high-capacity lithium-ion battery (LIB) anodes.
- Core/shell nanowire heterostructures can enhance electrochemical performance by combining material properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the electrochemical performance and structural stability of SnO2/ZnO core/shell nanowires as LIB anode materials.
- To correlate structural evolution during cycling with battery performance.
Main Methods:
- Electrochemical analysis including charge/discharge cycling, rate capability tests, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy.
- High-resolution electron microscopy for structural characterization before and after cycling.
Main Results:
- SnO2/ZnO core/shell nanowires exhibited expected electrochemical signals for both SnO2 and ZnO, with partial reversibility.
- An initial 30% capacity increase was observed compared to ZnO-only structures.
- Cycling induced significant structural changes: Sn/Zn redistribution, metallic Sn nanoparticle formation, and loss of mechanical integrity.
Conclusions:
- The SnO2/ZnO heterostructure shows promising initial capacity but suffers from stability limitations due to structural degradation.
- Understanding the differing reversibility of SnO2 and ZnO reactions is crucial for designing stable next-generation LIB anodes.
